Hanger Tour: Inside Jetstar’s Brand New Airbus A320neo
Jetstar has marked a significant milestone with the arrival of its first Airbus A320neo in Melbourne, the next phase of its fleet renewal program. Jetstar’s new A320neo is the first of its type to be registered in Australia, and sports the same black leather seating as found onboard its A321neo aircraft. As well as a quieter ride and larger overhead bins, passengers enjoy device holders and fast seatback charging.
Jetstar’s first A320neo, registered VH-A5A, touched down in Melbourne at 11:41pm on 24 November 2024, following its delivery flight from Toulouse, France. It’s the first of 13 A320neos Jetstar has ordered under the Qantas Group’s fleet renewal program. Those jets are in addition to 15 of the larger A321neo XLR (extra-long range) on order, and 23 A321neoLR (long range), of which 18 are already in service having launched in 2022.
Another four A320neo and three A321neoLR aircraft will be delivered by June 2025, with the entire order scheduled to be in the air by mid-2029.
Jetstar CEO Steph Tully was eager to welcome the modern aircraft, highlighting the benefits for both passengers and the environment.
“The new A320neos will provide customers with a new level of low-cost comfort through their refreshed cabin…These aircraft are also more fuel efficient, reducing emissions and helping us to offer more low fares across our domestic and international network.”
Jetstar’s inaugural A320neo flight is currently scheduled from Melbourne to Hobart as JQ703 on Friday 13th December. But that date isn’t set in stone, with Jetstar telling Flight Hacks that the aircraft could enter service earlier, subject to maintenance checks and regulatory approvals.
We Explore Jetstar’s First Airbus A320neo
On Wednesday, Flight Hacks visited Jetstar’s Hanger 141 at Melbourne Airport to check out the new jet and share a glimpse of what passengers can expect. Here’s what makes Jetstar’s A320neo stand out;
- Extra-large overhead bins that provide 40% more storage for passenger carry-on luggage
- In-seat power sockets with USB-A and 60W fast-charging USB-C
- Seatback device holders for a tablet or phone
- Modern slimline seating offering 28-inch pitch in standard rows
- Improved LED lighting to provide greater comfort
- Inflight Streaming as a paid option via Jetstar Entertainment+
The Airbus neo family is defined by its ‘new engine option’ featuring next-generation jet engines designed to improve efficiency and environmental performance. Jetstar has chosen to equip its A320neo fleet with CFM LEAP-1A jets which are 50% quieter for a more comfortable flight experience, especially on longer routes. They also burn 20% less fuel compared to previous-generation aircraft, which translates into lower operating costs and a smaller carbon footprint.
Jetstar’s A320neo can accommodate up to 188 passengers, two more than the current A320 aircraft, thanks to a clever cabin layout adjustment. Despite the increase in capacity, Jetstar has maintained the same seat pitch and legroom, ensuring comfort isn’t sacrificed.
Where Will Jetstar Operate The A320neo?
Jetstar’s first A320neo will be based in Melbourne and is set to operate domestic routes during the summer, including to Hobart, Sydney, Sunshine Coast, Launceston and Adelaide. Jetstar Engineers are also currently working on installing additional safety equipment to allow the A320neo to operate longer international flights.
