Good service on a pleasant flight tips the dial in Jetstar's favour

Jetstar commenced this economy class-only service from Sydney to Port Vila in December last year, operating Airbus 320s and A321LR aircraft. This A321-NEO LR (pictured) is so named for its "New Engine Option", which refers to quieter, more fuel-efficient engines.

We are scheduled to depart at 10.30am on a Saturday.

CHECKING IN: As usual, the Jetstar queue is long but the counters are well-staffed and the process is smooth. An ongoing upgrade to Sydney's T1 means Gates 24-26 have restricted entry until boarding.

This "flight" begins with a bus ride to the plane and a very long taxi before take-off. One passenger quips: "I thought we were flying there."

THE FLIGHT: We make up for a delayed departure and land on schedule at 3pm Vanuatu time, an hour ahead of Sydney time. Then we hit "island time" and our bags are unloaded languidly. Customs clearance is quick and simple, and an ATM dispenses the local currency Vatu, which you will likely need.

THE CLASS: The A321-NEO LR has 232 seats in a 3-3 configuration, and I am in 6C on the aisle. The seats are thinly padded, and 45.7cm wide with a pitch of 73.7cm. Only the exit row and bulkhead seats offer extra legroom. It's snug but comfortable enough for this short run. The overhead bins are spacious enough for all carry-ons.

FOOD & DRINK: Available by pre-order or in-flight purchase, the menu's $12 light bites include a cheese and ham toastie, bacon and egg roll, meat pie and sausage roll duo, pumpkin and feta quiche and spinach and ricotta roll duo, chicken wrap, and cheddar and salad or egg and lettuce sandwiches. I don't partake as lunch awaits in Port Vila, but it all looks and smells pretty good. It's $5 for lollies, chips and soup, $5 for soft drinks and juices, $15 for spirits, and $12 for beer and wine.

ENTERTAINMENT: Jetstar Entertainment+ streams to my device for $7. The selection of a dozen or so movies and TV shows is adequate for this short flight.