Search Results forairasia x
AirAsia X launches direct route to Karachi
AirAsia X announced a new route to Pakistan’s largest city Karachi from 30th May. The four-times-weekly flights mark another milestone in the airline’s international expansion. With 22 routes in total, the airline strengthens its commitment to affordable medium-haul travel. AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail said of this new offering: “We are thrilled to launch AAX’s next adventure in Karachi, further strengthening our presence in the South Asian market. Karachi is a dynamic city with a rich history and a thriving modern economy, and we are proud to be the sole low-cost carrier connecting this vibrant metropolis to our extensive network beyond Malaysia. This route will also open up hundreds of seamless connectivity options for travellers to key markets such as Australia, China, Thailand, and more via our Fly-Thru services.” Enhancing connectivity As the only low-cost carrier in Malaysia to provide direct service to Karachi, this new route enhances affordable connectivity between the two nations, allowing Malaysian travellers and the thriving Pakistani community in Malaysia to fly home affordably. It also plays a pivotal role in linking travellers from Pakistan to Malaysia and the rest of ASEAN, connecting them to the region’s vibrant trade, tourism, and economic opportunities. Ismail added: “With plenty to explore and experience, be it for business, leisure or pilgrimage, both nations are set to benefit from immense tourism and travel potential with this new flight service. AAX anticipates carrying more than 100,000 guests annually on this route, further reiterating our commitment to support the Malaysian government’s initiative to welcome 30 million tourists in line with the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. We look forward to mutually benefitting the growth and prosperity of both countries.”
AirAsia X adds internal targets to its financial disclosures
As a way of reinforcing its commitment to transparency and accountability, AirAsia X (AAX) is adding its internal targets to its financial disclosures. This initiative aims to provide greater clarity on the company’s financial performance in compliance with Bursa Malaysia’s regulatory framework to support informed decision-making among investors and stakeholders. The introduction of internal targets reflects AAX’s drive to elevate corporate governance standards by providing clear guidance to the investment community on its financial performance and value-creation strengths. Greater accuracy in reporting By enhancing visibility into revenue, EBITDA, and other key financial metrics, the company aims to facilitate a more accurate assessment of its market position and growth potential. Under the new structure, AAX’s consolidated financial guidance will outline revenue performance, EBITDA, and non-margin metrics. AAX chair Fam Lee Ee said: “As we accelerate towards becoming a leading airline group and evolve into one of the region’s largest aviation groups, setting clear financial targets is a critical step in ensuring transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth. Given the scale of our multi-country operations, these targets will serve as our true north, keeping us focused on creating long-term value for our shareholders and broader stakeholders” Fam added that the initiative strengthens accountability across all operational areas, spanning aviation and non-aviation business segments. He added: "We can optimise efficiencies, fine-tune budgets, establish realistic forecasts, and drive strategic decision-making by setting structured financial goals. It also provides financial analysts and investors with deeper insight into our fundamentals, operating environment, and anticipated profitability ensuring we remain agile, responsive to market shifts, and well-positioned for continued success.” Moving forward, AAX will share internal targets alongside each quarterly financial report, starting with its Q42024 and Full Year 2024 Financial Results disclosure. These internal targets are solely management aspirations and do not constitute financial estimates, forecasts, or projections under Bursa Malaysia’s financial forecasting and disclosure standards.
Capital A, AirAsia X extend deadline for disposal of AirAsia Aviation Group
Capital A Berhad announced that it has mutually agreed with AirAsia X Berhad (AAX) to extend the cut-off dates for the completion of the proposed disposal of AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL) and AirAsia Berhad (AAB) to AAX. The announcement was made on Monday, 27th January. The timeline has been extended by two months, from 25 January to 24 March, allowing both parties additional time to finalise the transaction for AAAGL and AAB. Notably, all due diligence for both entities has already been successfully completed. This extension ensures that both parties have adequate time to fulfill the necessary conditions and finalise the transaction. All other terms and conditions of the SSPAs remain unchanged. Considerable progress Capital A chief executive Tony Fernandes said: “We are encouraged by the progress we’ve made, and remain committed to ensuring everything is right on track. This extension provides the time needed to finalise all aspects of the transaction with precision, including obtaining consent from the lessors, which is primarily done, and receiving the earliest date from the High Court of Malaya. Once the court approves the arrangement, we will swiftly move to complete the placement, which is already in advanced discussions.” With key milestones already achieved, including the completion of due diligence for both AirAsia Aviation Group and AirAsia Berhad, as well as the approval from shareholders of both Capital A and AirAsia X in October 2024, the parties are now in the final stage of negotiations. Fernandes added: “Upon completion, this transaction will result in a stronger, globally competitive AirAsia, leveraging synergies between short-haul and long-haul operations to improve efficiency, profitability, and shareholder returns. It will also enhance connectivity and customer experience for our guests. This move unlocks significant growth opportunities, as it aligns with Capital A’s broader strategy to lead in the digital aviation and services space. Capital A is looking forward to accelerating the growth of our technology-driven aviation services and digital ecosystem, particularly in response to the anticipated global rise in travel demand.”
Thai AirAsia X resumes direct flights to Sydney
Thai AirAsia X officially resumed its direct flight services to and from Sydney, Australia on Sunday, 1st December. Flights to and from the Australian city are being operated from Thai AirAsia X’s main hub at Don Mueang International Airport. The reintroduced route flies a total of six weekly flights for now. The only LCC flying from Bangkok to Sydney The new route launch makes Thai AirAsia X the only low-cost airline providing direct services from Bangkok-Don Mueang to Sydney, offering seamless connections for passengers traveling from Sydney to a wide range of destinations across the AirAsia Group network. These include favourite destinations among Australian travelers such as Krabi, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, as well as popular international destinations like Japan, South Korea, India and China. According to Thai AirAsia X CEO Tassapon Bijleveld: “The return of Thai AirAsia X to Sydney comes along with an enhanced flight network within the AirAsia Group that will give travelers the much sought after convenience and seamlessness especially with our FlyThru connections to over 50 popular destinations. Guests from Australia will also find the flight schedules between Sydney and Bangkok very favourable and they can choose any flight from the increased frequency of six flights per week. As a show of appreciation to our valued guests, we are also introducing a new meal set exclusively for our Premium Flatbed guests.” Bijleveld also pointed out how operating from Don Mueang greatly enhances connectivity with the AirAsia Group’s extensive network, particularly to destinations in India, where there is a strong and growing demand for travel to Australia. He said: “Our FlyThru service also provides a hassle-free experience, allowing guests to travel seamlessly as they only need to clear immigration and collect their luggage at the final destination.”
Thai AirAsia X opens new direct route between Thailand and India
Thai AirAsia X announced the expansion of its route network with new direct flights from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport to the Indian capital Delhi. Travellers from Thailand will soon experience the grandeur of the sprawling Indian capital from only THB 3,290 per trip beginning 15th December 2024. According to Thai AirAsia X chief executive Tassapon Bijleveld, the airline is initiating services to India by beginning with the strategic and largest city of Delhi, its primary centre of culture, trade, and economics. Bijleveld added: “Delhi is home to many tourism highlights of India, such as India Gate and Red Fort. Thai AirAsia X believes its bridging of Thailand and India will promote strong relations and increase the ease of travel between the two countries. Operating out of Don Mueang Airport, arrivals on the route will have access to the largest hub of domestic travel in Thailand and beyond on the AirAsia Group network spanning over 130 destinations.” With the addition of direct flights to Delhi, AirAsia now operates 13 connections between Thailand and India. Twice weekly in the beginning Thai AirAsia X will fly the Don Mueang-Delhi route two times a week on Wednesday and Sunday, before increasing frequency to four times a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday from 15 January 2025. Don Mueang-Delhi will be served by Thai AirAsia X (XJ) 285-377 seat Airbus A330 aircraft. The just over four-hour flight, XJ230, departs from Don Mueang Airport at 12.45 hrs to arrive in Delhi at 15.50 hrs. Return flight XJ231 departs from Delhi at 17.05 hrs to arrive in Don Mueang at 22.50 hrs. Bijleveld said: “We are confident this route will be well received by both Thai and international travellers and that it will draw Indian visitors to Thailand, who may use our Fly Thru service to connect to domestic destinations such as Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and Hat Yai, or even continue onward to Pattaya or other destinations in the AirAsia Group network.”
Capital A shareholders approve disposal of aviation business to AirAsia X
Capital A announced that shareholders voted in favour of the proposed disposal of the Group’s aviation business to AirAsia X at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) convened on Monday, 14th October. This approval marks a pivotal milestone, enabling Capital A to focus on the four strategic pillars that will drive its transformation into a future-proofed tech-driven aviation services company via Capital A Aviation Services (CAPAS), MOVE Digital, Teleport (Logistics), and the Brand AA company. With regard to next steps, Capital A will seek a court order to distribute the consideration shares to shareholders through a planned reduction and repayment of the company’s issued share capital. It will also be securing approval from the holders of Redeemable Convertible Unsecured Islamic Debt Securities (RCUIDS) at the next EGM, marking another critical milestone in Capital A’s journey. These critical steps will enable Capital A to achieve a clean balance sheet and focus on submitting its regularisation plan before the year end, with the aim of exiting Practice Note 17 (PN17) status. Capital A Berhad chief executive Tony Fernandes said: "This is a watershed moment for Capital A and the AirAsia group of airlines, building on the tremendous value created over the past 23 years. With shareholder approval to divest the aviation business, we are unlocking a bright new future by delineating our pure-play aviation business from aviation support services. This clarity will benefit both shareholders and customers, allowing us to redefine the future of travel in the region." Working on a broader strategy Fernandes added that Capital A’s broader strategy is aimed at developing technology-driven aviation services and digital businesses that will support the significant anticipated growth in travel demand. He said: “Separating the aviation and non-aviation businesses allows us to sharpen our focus on maturing the high-growth aviation support services and digital businesses we have built to support the aviation business. Upon securing AAX shareholders approval at the [next] EGM, the aviation businesses will be able to consolidate to form a game-changing AirAsia Group, with synergies between short-haul and long-haul operations driving greater efficiency, profitability, and shareholder returns.” Fernandes further emphasised that Capital A is well-positioned for accelerated growth, "From digital travel to logistics and brand management, we are building a robust, tech-powered aviation services ecosystem. Today’s approval from our shareholders also paves the way for Capital A to move to a clean balance sheet that will provide the clarity and flexibility to finalise our regularisation plan and exit PN17 status soon." This restructuring aligns with the Group’s strategy to evolve into an agile, technology-focused organisation, built around four key pillars: aviation services, travel and fintech via MOVE Digital, the expansion of logistics solutions throughout ASEAN, and managing the globally recognised AirAsia brand through strategic licensing and partnerships.
AirAsia X to collaborate with Kenya Tourism Board
AirAsia X entered a strategic route marketing collaboration with the Kenya Tourism Board to boost connectivity between the Asian and African continents. By doing so, the parties involved hope to drive tourism growth in both regions. The announcement comes just as AirAsia X is slated to launch its new direct flights connecting Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi on 15th November 2024, offering four flights a week. In line with AirAsia X’s commitment to working closely with local partners, the airline also partnered with Magical Aviation Services, its official general sales agent (GSA) in Nairobi, to ensure local expertise drives its operations in the region. This collaboration enables the airline to provide tailored services that meet the specific needs of Kenyan travellers, with Magical Aviation Services playing a key role in managing sales, marketing, and customer support. Further reinforcing its dedication to the Kenyan market, the airline has also opened its first sales office in Nairobi at Riverside Square, marking a significant milestone in its African expansion. This new office serves as a vital touchpoint for customers, offering on-the-ground support and sales services, and solidifying the airline’s long-term commitment to the region. What does the partnership entail? The collaboration between AAX and the Kenya Tourism Board includes joint promotional activities, coordinated marketing campaigns, and collaborative efforts to enhance travel experiences. Likewise, it aims to leverage the strengths of both organisations to attract more tourists and stimulate economic growth in both countries. The East African Community (EAC) region set a goal to attract over 14 million international tourists annually by 2025, with Nairobi positioned as a major hub in its tourism strategy. The new flights will enhance Nairobi’s profile as a gateway to both regional and international travel, driving economic benefits and promoting cultural exchange. The introduction of this direct route is also set to play a crucial role by offering Kenyan travellers convenient Fly-Thru access to Asia’s leading destinations through Kuala Lumpur. Moreover, in alignment with Malaysia's upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, this new route will bolster Malaysia’s appeal as a premier travel destination offering diverse experiences. Furthermore, Kuala Lumpur will serve as a key gateway for tourists from Nairobi, granting them direct access to Malaysia’s vibrant attractions, including its cultural landmarks, scenic landscapes, and thriving culinary scene. A milestone all around AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail said of the collaboration: “This is a major milestone in our mission to connect Asia with Africa and opens up a world of travel possibilities between the two continents. [The collaboration] demonstrates our commitment to expanding travel opportunities and boosting tourism. This new route will play a crucial role in Kenya’s tourism growth and create new connections for travellers.” Ismail added that, for other key routes like those for Australia and China, Nairobi will now be easily accessible, offering travellers new adventures in Africa and enhanced travel options via Kuala Lumpur. This route not only strengthens the airline’s global network but also supports the tourism goals of both Kenya and Malaysia. Kenya Tourism Board chief executive June Chepkemei remarked that the collaboration would drive a substantial growth in tourism numbers to Kenya. This enhanced connectivity will stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities for local businesses, showcasing Kenya as a key destination for global travellers, especially from Asia. By facilitating easier access to Nairobi, the country anticipates increased tourism revenue and stronger cultural exchange, benefiting both Kenya’s tourism sector and its broader economy. Chepkemei said: “The Asia Pacific region is a key source market for Kenya. The region saw over 320,000 travellers into the country in 2023, with India, China and Japan among the top drivers of visitor arrivals. Our goal through this collaboration is to ensure that we have more tourists coming from Malaysia and other regional destinations to Kenya.”
AirAsia X clinches Best International Airline at 2024 Australian Aviation Awards
AirAsia X received the Best International Airline Flying to Australia title at the Australian Aviation Awards 2024 in Sydney. Australian Aviation editor Adam Thorn said of the airline: “The judges were hugely impressed not only by its passenger performance, but technological innovations and commitment to sustainability.” As of 2019, AirAsia X has flown over six million guests annually. At present, its focus is centred on the active expansion of routes connecting Australians to both popular and new hidden gems across Asia and beyond. The airline presently flies to 23 destinations including Australian favourites such as India, Japan, South Korea, China and more. Recently, the airline launched flights to Almaty in Kazakhstan and Nairobi, Kenya, offering more value and choice for guests down under. A pivotal moment For AirAsia X chief executive Benyamin Ismail, the award marks a pivotal moment in the airline’s history as it was the very first destination it flew to when it began operations in November 2007. Today, Australia remains one of AirAsia X’s core markets. Ismail said: “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the incredible AirAsia X team who worked tirelessly to bring us out of the most challenging times in aviation history. Together, we have emerged stronger than ever, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the safest, most affordable, and reliable air travel experience for our guests with an exceptional inflight experience.” Ismail added that, moving forward, the airline continues to enhance its products and services, and currently has a number of plans for significant growth in the near future. Indeed, AirAsia X intends to cover the majority of continents, ensuring that Australians have even more value and choice when it comes to their travel options.
AirAsia X releases financials for Q2-2024
AirAsia X Berhad maintained its momentum in the second quarter of this year as it delivered a robust financial performance throughout the period which ended on 30 June 2024. The airline recorded a turnover of RM669.1 million in the second quarter, increasing by 30 percent year-on-year, reflecting the sustained demand in core markets as the Company ramped up its capacity to 16 operational aircraft. The Company posted Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation ("EBITDA") of RM58.4 million for this quarter, while net profit stood at RM4.8 million, despite common perception that second quarters are, traditionally, the weakest time of the year, and before full activation of its 18-aircraft fleet. A higher number of passengers In the second quarter, the number of passengers carried rose by 42 percent YoY to over 880,000 passengers, surpassing the 30 percent YoY growth in seat capacity. Bolstered by the spring travel seasons in key markets and the Eid holiday period this quarter, passenger load factor (PLF) stayed at a healthy 83 percent, up by seven percentage points YoY, as load factors on high-demand routes in China, India, and Japan trended close to 90 percent. AirAsia X’s average base fare was RM458 in 2Q24 against RM650 last quarter, in line with a softer travel season during the traditionally weakest quarter in the year. Ancillary revenue increased over 48 percent YoY to RM218.2 million, in line with the increase in the number of passengers carried and buoyed by ancillary revenue per passenger increasing by 5% YoY to RM248 per passenger. This was driven by the continuous improvements and fine-tuning of various products and services and improved utilisation of data, including enhancements in the customer personalisation strategy and booking flow, as well as continual evolution to meet the latest trends of food and beverages served inflight by SANTAN. Working to regain market leadership On network, AirAsia X reinforced its commitment to regain market leadership in core markets and resumed operations to Xi’an in April, fortifying its presence in this core market to five destinations including Beijing, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Shanghai in 2Q24. The airline also increased flight frequencies between Kuala Lumpur and Bali to 14 times per week to cater to strong demand for the popular leisure island destination. However, over the last 12 months, AirAsia X suspended services to Busan, Auckland and the Gold Coast as part of its network optimisation exercise to ensure that it is always flying the most popular and profitable routes. Against last year, the airline delivered 31% more flights in 2Q24 at 2,916 total stages. Total weekly flights stood at 128 flights per week on average.
Thai AirAsia X Suspends Sydney-Bangkok Flights, Promises Stronger Return
Thai AirAsia X, the long-haul budget airline, has announced the temporary suspension of its flights between Sydney and Bangkok, effective from 1 August 2024. This route is currently the airline’s only operation in Australia. Despite the suspension, the airline remains committed to the Australian market and plans to return to Sydney Airport with more flights from December 2024. The decision to suspend services temporarily was driven by considerations related to “fleet management and operation hub movement.” In a recent announcement, Thai AirAsia X revealed plans to relocate all flight operations back to Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport (DMK) from 1 October 2024 after operating out of Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). The move aims to boost connections to the larger AirAsia network and provide easier access to central Bangkok. To minimize disruptions, the airline will reroute impacted flights between Sydney and Bangkok via Kuala Lumpur, with services operated by AirAsia X Malaysia. Additionally, passengers wishing to alter their travel plans will be offered free flight changes, flight credits, and full refunds. Thai AirAsia X CEO Tassapon Bijleveld referred to the relocation as a “homecoming,” expressing excitement about joining the extensive AirAsia network, which serves 93 routes with 1,250 flights a week. Earlier this year, parent company AirAsia announced its ambition to become the first global budget network carrier. As part of this plan, AirAsia Group recently launched its first-ever service to Africa and plans to expand its network to Europe and North America in the coming years. Despite the temporary suspension of the Sydney-Bangkok route, AirAsia Airlines has been expanding its presence in Australia. In June, subsidiary AirAsia Indonesia launched a new service between Cairns and Bali’s Denpasar Airport, and sister carrier AirAsia Malaysia made its debut in the Australian aviation market, with its first flight touching down at Perth Airport in March. As Thai AirAsia X navigates these changes, passengers can look forward to an enhanced schedule and experience when the airline resumes its Sydney-Bangkok service in December 2024.
HEDNA Bangkok – September 11-12 2023
The agenda will bring a wide array of current topics in our industry to the main stage. You’ll hear from experts in Distribution, Fintech and Payments, Marketplaces, Leading Executives and of course our Hoteliers will be bringing their perspectives to these topics and so much more.