Jetstar wishes to provide an update on its low fare services to and from five of its Queensland markets (Cairns, Hamilton Island, Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine), Townsville and Mackay) due to the predicted impact on its operations from Cyclone Yasi.

Jetstar Australia and New Zealand CEO David Hall said the airline had put in place numerous additional services today out of Far North Queensland to assist customers, Jetstar staff and others seeking to depart the region.

Mr Hall said in addition to scheduled services for the five affected ports, Jetstar will operate a total of 7 additional A320 services (two from Hamilton Island and five from Cairns), offering more than 1200 additional seats to its current operations for people seeking to leave the region.

“We are working closely with the Queensland Government and our airport and tourism partners to do everything we can to assist our customers, our team and others in the affected locations,” Mr Hall said.

“We have added these additional flight services in order to assist as many people as we can exiting Hamilton Island and greater Cairns ahead of the full force of Cyclone Yasi.”

In addition, Jetstar continues flexible arrangements for customers travelling on domestic or international flights to or from the below locations up until Sunday 6 February 2011, including refunds or change to travel dates for no fee:

• Hamilton Island

• Mackay

• Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine)

• Townsville

• Cairns

Travel must be taken prior to 5 April 2011.

The airline is continuing to closely monitor the situation and Jetstar.com will be regularly updated.

“As always, safety and care for our customers and our team are our top priorities during these events,” Mr Hall said.

“We continue to monitor developments closely in order to determine any further ways we can assist.”