SYDNEY -- Qantas will shut down its Singapore-based subsidiary, Jetstar Asia, impacting 16 routes within Asia, the Australian airline announced Wednesday, blaming high supplier costs, airport fees and tougher competition for the budget carrier's "growing challenges" in recent years.
In a news release, Qantas Group described the shutdown as part of a "strategic restructure" that supports its fleet renewal program, with 13 Jetstar Asia Airbus A320 to be deployed to its "stronger performing" core markets of Australia and New Zealand.
