This would be super super useful - Kinda like the "Drafts" on email. I had closed my computer since I needed to leave, it decided to reboot and lost all my progress on the ticket.

In fairness though this was open for 4 years.... But that is what it feels like sometimes. 

Haha. That happens at Atlassian! Oh look a new feature request.... 5 minutes later..... closed. 

Me too, just wasted time with accidentally touching my touchpad and the ticket is gone.

I know this is closed, but I'd like to add my vote. 

Thanks for taking the time to raise this issue.

Due to the large volume of JIRA feature suggestions, we have to prioritise our development efforts. In part, that means concentrating on those issues that resonate the most with our users.

I am writing this note to advise you, that we have decided to close your Suggestion as it has not gained traction on jira.atlassian.com. We believe being upfront and direct with you will assist you in your decision making rather than believing Atlassian will eventually address this issue.

Thank you again for your suggestion and if you have any concerns or question, please don’t hesitate to email me.
Kind Regards,
Kerrod Williams
JIRA Product Management
kerrod.williams at atlassian dot com

After spending half an hour writing a JIRA issue, I accidentally lost it Now I have to start writing it all over again.

Plus one from me for this request.

One approach how text can be saved as draft is used for topic replies at http://stackoverflow.com/.