The future is Asia, says Qantas boss
Qantas plans to launch two new Asia-focused airlines as part of a massive revamp of its international operations.
The emphasis for Qantas will switch from Europe to Asia with a new, premium Asian airline as well as a Japanese low-cost carrier, Jetstar Japan.
“We have an historic opportunity to position Australia’s two great airline brands, Qantas and Jetstar, in Asia and create a platform for the future of our business,†said Qantas chief Alan Joyce.
Competitors were circling opportunities in Asia and Qantas needed to act quickly, Joyce added.
“There is probably only a brief window to establish a leading aviation position in the market.â€
A new Qantas-backed, joint-venture premium airline based in Asia would have a new name, a new brand and 11 new A320 aircraft.
“The airline will not be called Qantas but it will leverage all our Qantas know-how,†Joyce said.
“We have narrowed down our location options and an announcement will be made when we have completed negotiations.
“We will be offering same day services to and within Asia, and overall frequencies to Asia from Australia will grow,†Joyce added.
Comment from The Mole: Qantas is playing catch up in Asia where Singapore Airlines is moving ahead with plans to launch a low cost carrier and Malaysia Airlines is jumping into bed with one-time bitter rival, Air Asia.
Curiously, Qantas hopes to work closer with alliance partner-to-be Malaysia Airlines, which last week announced a share swap with budget carrier Air Asia – a move that gave Air Asia boss Tony Fernandes a seat on the MAS board.
Air Asia will be a rival to Jetstar and Jetstar Japan in Asia and Malaysia Airlines will be a competitor for the new Qantas-funded premium airline in the region.
Interesting times ahead in Asia’s skies, surely.
Ian Jarrett
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