Australia’s Qantas announced the closure of its Singapore-based budget airline Jetstar Asia, effective July 31, due to rising supplier costs, higher airport fees, and intensified competition. Over 500 employees will be laid off, with affected customers receiving full refunds and potential rebooking assistance. The closure will impact 16 routes in Asia, while Qantas aims to redirect Jetstar Asia’s aircraft to bolster its operations in Australia and New Zealand.