The Qantas Group’s low fares airline Jetstar has confirmed the establishment of a fully owned subsidiary company based in New Zealand – Jetstar Airways Limited.

The Registrar of Companies New Zealand has certified that Qantas Investments (NZ) Limited, incorporated in December 2002, has changed its name to Jetstar Airways Limited as of 14 January 2009.

Jetstar Chief Executive Officer Bruce Buchanan said establishing a New Zealand based subsidiary was a desired and necessary platform to support the airline’s expansion of operations in New Zealand.

Mr Buchanan said this included Jetstar’s next phase of growth on the trans Tasman route with the commencement of daily direct Auckland-Sydney* and Auckland-Gold Coast* A320 services from 28 April 2009. (*Subject to regulatory approval).

“As Jetstar further grows our trans Tasman operations to 42 weekly return frequencies by late April with our first time introduction of international services from Auckland, we believe our New Zealand flying should be supported with its own structure,” Mr Buchanan said.

“The establishment of this company represents our commitment to the New Zealand market and to create local jobs.

“The company plans in the future to employ Pilots, Cabin Crew and other employees who will be based in New Zealand with the intention of supporting our New Zealand services.

“It also aligns with our intention of gaining a future New Zealand Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

“Existing employment arrangements for personnel supporting our Christchurch based trans Tasman operations remains in place and is unchanged.”

At commencement Jetstar’s new trans Tasman services from Auckland* will be conducted under its Australian Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

* Subject to Regulatory approval