Jetstar Asia has welcomed its first Sharklet-equipped Airbus A320 to its fleet, making the airline the first Singapore carrier with the new fuel saving wing tip devices.

The aircraft entered service this week, during Lunar New Year, signalling an auspicious start for the value-based carrier.

The Singapore-registered aircraft is the fifth new A320 to join the airline as part of Jetstar Asia’s fleet renewal program which kicked off in October 2012.

Made of lightweight composite materials, the 2.4-meter-tall Sharklets improve the A320’s aerodynamics, which in turn reduces fuel consumption and emissions, resulting in fuel savings of up to four per cent. The wing-tip devices also enhance take-off performance, raise optimum flight altitude, deliver an improved rate-of-climb and a lowering of engine maintenance costs.*

Jetstar Asia’s CEO Bara Pasupathi said the improved functions of the Sharklet-equipped A320 are important as the airline continues its fleet renewal program.

“Jetstar Asia is very proud to be the first carrier to receive the A320 with Sharklets in the Jetstar Group as well as Singapore. The distinctive wing-tips are a remarkable piece of innovation that brings about higher fuel efficiencies for the airline and helps us deliver on our promise to offer everyday low fares to our customers,” Mr Pasupathi said.

“In addition to the fleet renewal announced in October, we will be taking delivery of two more Sharklet-equipped A320s in Singapore before the end of the year.”

The Jetstar Asia A320 with Sharklets is configured with 180 slim line full leather seats.

Jetstar Asia currently operates a fleet of 17 A320s in Singapore.

Jetstar Japan and Jetstar Airways (Australia) will receive A320s with Sharklets in the coming months.