Jetstar's plans to start operating out of Hong Kong have come under fire from rival operators, who have opposed its license application. Qantas (ASX: QAN) owns 33.3% of Jetstar Hong Kong, alongside local Hong Kong property conglomerate Shun Tak and China Eastern Airlines.
The Hong Kong islands' proximity to mainland China provides a ready made and rapidly growing market for successful low-cost carriers. Jetstar's opposition is coming from Hong Kong's premier carrier Cathay Pacific, which has filed legal objections to Jetstar Hong Kong's license application.
News reports today suggest that Hong Kong Airlines and its affiliate carrier Hong Kong Express have also filed regulatory objections with Hong Kong's Air Transport Licensing Authority. A decision on the license is expected within the next few months.
Jetstar is already a strong brand in Asia and Jetstar Hong Kong would significantly add to its presence. The group has shareholdings in Jetstar Singapore, Vietnam and Japan and is the largest low-cost carrier in the Asia Pacific by revenue.
Foolish takeaway
Hong Kong as a strategic gateway to China represents a valuable prize to the Jetstar business. No wonder rival carriers are in a dogfight over their competitive interests. Jetstar Hong Kong remains confident of gaining regulatory approvals and success should bring long-term rewards.
Interested in our #1 dividend-paying stock? Discover The Motley Fool's favourite income idea for 2013-2014 in our brand-new, FREE research report, including a full investment analysis! Simply click here for your FREE copy of "The Motley Fool's Top Dividend Stock for 2013-2014."
More reading
- Qantas CEO snags $1 million rise
- Air New Zealand to increase Virgin stake
- 3 reasons AMP should be on your watchlist
Motley Fool contributor Tom Richardson does not own shares in any of the companies mentioned in this article.
