Jetstar Japan has accepted its first A320 fitted with ‘sharklets’, becoming the first Japan-based carrier to operate with the fuel-saving devices.
‘Sharklets’ are an option on new-build A320 Family aircraft and will be fitted as standard on all A320neo aircraft. The new wingtip devices measure 2.4 metres tall, replacing A320’s current wingtip fence. They add around 100nm more range or an increased payload capability of up to 450kg.
“We are very happy to be the first operator of the latest version of the cost efficient A320 in Japan,” said Jetstar Japan president Miyuki Suzuki. “The new sharklet-equipped A320 will help us to save on fuel costs and allow us to continue to offer low fares to our customer.”
Jetstar Japan began operations in July 2012 and now has seven A320s in service. The fleet is planned to grow to 24 by the end of 2014.
