Let's get one thing out of the way: Business Class on a low-cost carrier is not Business Class on a full-service airline. But it is a pretty close match to a full-service airline's Premium Economy (PE), as we recently found out flying on Jetstar Business Class. Misnomer aside, there may be no lie-flat beds on Jetstar Business Class but it is still a veritable elevated flight experience, perks and all.

And these perks make a whole lot of difference, as I learned firsthand on my recent return flights between Singapore and Melbourne on Jetstar Business Class, when I was getting a sneak peek at Jetstar’s new uniforms to be launched later this year (it’s the airline’s first uniform overhaul in its 20-year history).

From Singapore, Jetstar Business Class is available on the Singapore-Melbourne route. If you’re flying from Down Under, Business Class is available on 17 international routes originating from Australia, including Sydney and Gold Coast.

Jetstar Business Class Review: Singapore-Melbourne and Melbourne-Singapore (Boeing 787 Dreamliner)

The Jetstar Business Class cabin on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is in a 2-3-2 configuration, and there is a dedicated washroom for the 21 Business Class passengers, which is always a bonus.

What is the Jetstar Business Class seat like? 

In terms of size, Jetstar Business Class seats are comparable to full-service airlines’ Premium Economy. The Jetstar Business Class seat has a seat pitch of 38 inches, and a width of 19 inches. In comparison, Singapore Airlines Premium Economy has a seat pitch 38 inches, and a width ranging from 18.5 to 19.5 inches, depending on aircraft. 

Needless to say, it’s considerably more spacious than Economy (seat pitch 30 inches and width of 17 inches). While the leather seats on Jetstar Business Class do not turn into lie-flat beds, I still got plenty of shut-eye (even though I forgot to pack my travel pillow). That’s because it did have the one feature that I’ve always appreciated on a plane seat: the raised calf rest. Coupled with a good amount of recline, it provides enough support to make you feel more comfortable and is gentler on the back as well.

The Business Class seats offer considerably more legroom compared to Economy, but if you do get a chance, book yourself a bulkhead seat in Biz for even more space. 

Left: Seated at the window seat (1J) for the first flight, there was more than enough space for me to pass my seat neighbour to get to the washroom without disturbing him.

Right: On my way back, I was on an aisle seat in the middle of the plane (1F), which slightly overlaps with the entry to the galley. Taller folks will appreciate the extra leg space, but you may get crew occasionally bumping into you, though it was hardly a bother. 

Jetstar Business Class: Food and drinks 

Friendly cabin crew come round to serve Business Class passengers sparkling wine or juice and to take your meal orders at the start of the flight. Meals, drinks and snacks are included in the ticket price, and this is typically two meals each flight. Here’s what I ate on the flights and how they fared. 

• Dinner: Chicken with rice, a cheesecake and sourdough bread. This was tasty and a sufficient portion for what is a late dinner (take-off was at 9pm).  
• Breakfast: Omelette with sausages, potatoes and tomatoes, with a side of sourdough bread and a muffin. Not bad by plane food standards. 

Melbourne to Singapore

• Lunch: Spinach and ricotta ravioli, side salad, a slice of cake and bread. Delish, and a reasonable portion.
• Chicken quesadilla with cheesecake and bread. This was the only meal that was a little underwhelming.

Snacks like chips, crackers, chocolate and cake as well as drinks are available upon request if you get hungry in between meal services. 

What other perks do you get on Jetstar Business Class? 

Business Class passengers are provided with a blanket (thinner than usual but still keeps you warm enough), a pillow, and an amenity kit (or the Chill Kit, as they call it). Packed in a reusable tote, it includes an eye mask, ear plugs, socks, toothpaste and toothbrush, hand cream, wet wipes and a pen.

And, yes, there is inflight entertainment with your Business Class seat on Jetstar, something that the premium class on other low-cost carriers lack. Noise-cancelling headphones are also provided, and I have to say, these are pretty decent and do a reasonable job of blocking out noise. Although I still used my favourite Sony XM5 noise-cancelling headphones for most of the two flights, I wouldn’t be miffed if I forgot my own headphones and had to use the ones provided.

Of course, Business Class passengers also get 30kg checked-in luggage, 14kg carry-on baggage, and priority boarding for flights. There’s also a dedicated check-in counter for Business Class at the Melbourne airport. 

But perhaps one of the most underrated perks that not many talk about is that Business Class passengers on the Sin-Mel flight receive is an Express Pass, which allows you to skip immigration queues after you land at the Melbourne Airport. 

So is Jetstar Business Class worth it?

Yes, especially if you need the extra sleep and space on the seven-hour flight to Melbourne. In fact, I managed to get a few hours of sleep on board (personal achievement unlocked). Depending on when you book, Jetstar Business Class flights may be cheaper than standard airlines’ Premium Economy, with both offering similar flight experiences. Return Singapore-Melbourne flights on Jetstar Business Class start at $2,066 (book here).

Where to stay in Melbourne

Quincy Hotel Melbourne

Room rates: From $207. Book on Agoda, Booking.com and Expedia. Book your Melbourne airport transfers, tours and SIM cards on Klook.  

We loved the convenience of this uber-chic boutique hotel, located in the Melbourne CBD and close to the Southern Cross train station (there is a direct SkyBus Express Transfer from Melbourne Airport to the station; available here from $21.05). Exploring is also easy with many cafes and attractions within walking distance as well as tram stops less than five minutes away. Replete with spacious picture-perfect vibrant rooms in joyful hues, the hotel also has impressive breakfast offerings — the chilli scrambled eggs with crab meat is an explosion of flavours, and makes for a warm, hearty meal that will fuel you for a day of exploring the city.

This trip was made possible by Jetstar. 

Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission. Prices are correct at time of publishing.