Air New Zealand vs. Jetstar

Attribute	Air New Zealand	Jetstar
Fleet size	61	79
Destinations	52	37
Founded	1940	2003
Parent company	Air New Zealand Group	Qantas Group
Headquarters	Auckland, New Zealand	Melbourne, Australia

Flight Routes

Air New Zealand and Jetstar are two popular airlines that operate in the Australasia region. Air New Zealand is the national carrier of New Zealand and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. They have a comprehensive network that covers destinations in Asia, Australia, North America, and Europe. On the other hand, Jetstar is a low-cost carrier that operates primarily in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. They focus on providing affordable flights to popular tourist destinations.

Flight Experience

When it comes to the flight experience, Air New Zealand is known for its top-notch service and comfortable cabins. They offer a range of seating options, including Economy, Premium Economy, Business Premier, and their award-winning lie-flat beds in Business Class. Air New Zealand also provides complimentary meals and beverages on all international flights, as well as in-flight entertainment systems with a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and music. In comparison, Jetstar is a budget airline that offers a no-frills experience. They have a single cabin class with standard seats and charge extra for amenities such as meals, entertainment, and seat selection.

Baggage Allowance

One important factor to consider when choosing an airline is the baggage allowance. Air New Zealand typically includes checked baggage in the ticket price, with allowances varying depending on the class of travel. Economy passengers are usually allowed one checked bag, while Premium Economy and Business Class passengers have higher weight limits. In contrast, Jetstar has a more restrictive baggage policy and charges extra for checked baggage. Passengers are allowed to bring a small carry-on bag for free, but any additional luggage will incur fees.

Customer Service

Customer service is another key aspect of the airline experience. Air New Zealand is known for its friendly and attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure passenger comfort. They have won numerous awards for their customer service, including being named the Airline of the Year by AirlineRatings.com. On the other hand, Jetstar has received mixed reviews regarding their customer service. Some passengers have reported issues with delays, cancellations, and difficulty reaching customer service representatives.

Frequent Flyer Programs

For frequent travelers, the availability of a frequent flyer program can be a deciding factor when choosing an airline. Air New Zealand has a loyalty program called Airpoints, which allows members to earn points on flights and redeem them for rewards such as flights, upgrades, and merchandise. They also have partnerships with other airlines, hotels, and car rental companies to provide additional earning and redemption opportunities. Jetstar, on the other hand, does not have a traditional frequent flyer program. However, they offer a membership program called Club Jetstar, which provides members with exclusive deals and discounts on flights.

Overall Value

When comparing Air New Zealand and Jetstar, it ultimately comes down to the overall value for the traveler. Air New Zealand may have higher ticket prices compared to Jetstar, but they offer a superior flight experience with more amenities and better customer service. For passengers who prioritize comfort and service, Air New Zealand is likely the better choice. On the other hand, Jetstar appeals to budget-conscious travelers who are willing to forgo some comforts in exchange for lower fares. Both airlines have their strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to consider your priorities when making a decision.