Etiqa joins Income in extending goodwill insurance cover to Jetstar Asia travellers

[SINGAPORE] Etiqa Insurance Singapore on Monday (Jun 16) said it will extend its coverage for eligible customers affected by Jetstar Asia’s impending shutdown, following a similar decision announced by Income Insurance last week.

While the cessation of an airline’s operations is not typically covered under standard travel insurance policies, Etiqa said its coverage extension is “a gesture of goodwill to alleviate the financial burden” on its customers.

The support covers partial ticket expenses for Jetstar Asia flights after Jul 31, which is the last day of the Singapore-based low-cost carrier’s operations. The extended coverage applies to customers who purchased single-trip or annual travel insurance plans from Etiqa before 8 am on Jun 11.

The insurer’s move comes amid growing consumer uncertainty around Jetstar Asia’s closure.

For eligible policyholders making alternative travel arrangements after Jul 31, Etiqa said they can claim a fare difference of up to S$200 for rebooked flights in the same period.

They can also submit claims for non-refundable expenses related to pre-booked accommodation, local transport and travel activities. Claims are subject to the policy’s existing terms and applicable limits.

Etiqa has also lengthened the claim submission period to 90 days from 30 days, granting customers more time to assess and adjust their travel plans.

“We hope this goodwill gesture helps ease challenges faced by those with disrupted travel plans,” said Raymond Ong, chief executive officer of Etiqa Insurance Singapore. He added that the insurer is “committed to providing the support and assistance our customers need”.

Policyholders affected by Jetstar Asia’s flight disruptions between Jul 11 and Jul 31 may also file claims under the travel delay clause. All claims and non-refundable bookings must be supported by documentation from relevant service providers.

Customers’ options

Last week, Income Insurance announced it will offer similar goodwill coverage to affected policyholders.

Eligible customers with pre-trip cancellation cover may claim for unused and prepaid travel expenses such as accommodation, travel packages, local tours, amusement park tickets and transport (excluding Jetstar Asia tickets).

The extended coverage applies to eligible single-trip and annual travel insurance plans purchased prior to 8 am on Jun 11.

A full refund, within the stipulated policy limit, will be given if and when affected eligible customers fail to obtain a refund from their accommodation, transport or service providers, according to the travel insurance policy terms and conditions.

Jetstar Asia said customers who have booked flights for after its closure on Jul 31 will be contacted directly with an option for a full cash refund.

The Consumers Association of Singapore is working with the airline to clarify refund procedures and recourse options in cases of dispute.