Jetstar, the low-cost subsidiary of Australian carrier Qantas, plans to launch long-haul services to Europe in early 2009.
Group general manager Bruce Buchanan revealed the airline is considering flights to Amsterdam, Athens, Munich, Paris and Rome from a hub in Southeast Asia. Buchanan said Jetstar is looking at Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore or Ho Chi Minh City as a base.
Air traffic across Asia is booming and a series of low-cost carriers are preparing to launch services to Europe, including Air Asia X which will fly from Kuala Lumpur.
Authorities in Kuala Lumpur are keen to build its airport as a rival to Singapore, which is well-served by traditional, full-service carriers.
Jetstar has ordered 15 of the yet-to-be-launched Boeing 787 Dreamliners for delivery in 2009. The 787 is due to enter service next year, but is six months behind schedule.