The budget-flight subsidiary of Qantas Airways, on Thursday announced a new part-time work scheme for cabin crew, specifically targeting those with previous experience with other airlines.

The scheme was started with mothers in mind, to encourage them to return to the work force while allowing flexible shifts.

Part-time crew can choose to work as little as 50 hours per week, as opposed to about 150-170 hours for full-time crew.

The first intake of 12 stewardesses, representing some 10% of Jetstar's total cabin crew, have already begun flying.

One of them is Cecilia Ho, 34, who had left the industry after seven years of flying in order to have her first child.

Ms Ho said that the new scheme was 'ideal', as she could start working again, while still being able to spend quality time with her son.

Jetstar hopes to have a mix of 80 per cent full time to 20 per cent part-time staff by the end of the year.

Another 25 prospective candidates are already waiting in the wings.

Chairman of the Tripartite Committee on Work-Life Strategy Hawazi Daipi, praised Jetstar's initiative: 'This is an example of the kind of flexible work arrangements that the Manpower Ministry, together with our tripartite partners, promote and encourage.'

Read the full report in Friday's edition of The Straits Times.