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| (Image Source: AirAsia) |
AirAsia, the ASEAN airline, has announced a significant increase in its domestic and international flight frequencies with 3,281 flights weekly as a Group across 10 Southeast Asian countries to further elevate tourism and economic growth in the region. The announcement coincided with the 57th ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Day celebration held last August 8, 2024 at AirAsia RedQ in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia (MOFA). The airline also unveiled the resumption of its route from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Da Lat, Vietnam with four weekly flights starting November 1, 2024. This route reinstatement to one of Vietnam’s most picturesque cities known for its cool climate, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage is part of AirAsia’s broader strategy to reinforce its network and provide more affordable travel options within the region.
The increased frequencies and the resumed routes are expected to significantly boost tourism by providing more travel options and flexibility. This will lead to higher tourist arrivals, increased spending in local businesses, and the creation of jobs in the tourism sector. In line with this, AirAsia MOVE signed a collaboration agreement with ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) represented by its president Eddy Krismeidi Soemawilaga, solidifying ASEANTA’s support in terms of endorsement and member associations outreach as well as ASEAN National Tourism Organisations towards the ASEAN Explorer Pass, AirAsia MOVE’s signature travel subscription product. AirAsia Aviation Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bo Lingam said, ”In 2023, AirAsia carried over 61 million guests with more than 33 per cent travelling across ASEAN. Over the years, the airline has been a transformative force in ASEAN, democratising air travel for millions while unveiling both the well-trodden paths and hidden gems of the region’s tourism market with about 60 percent of destinations being new and unique. Our expanding operational footprint, with major hubs in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia, is a reflection of our unwavering belief in the power and potential of ASEAN unity and strength as an economic bloc. We take great pride in championing the ASEAN Economic Community’s vision of creating a single market and production base. This will help reduce our costs by having common standards: one air-traffic-control system, one engineering system, open skies policy and common ownership.”
Lingam further added, “As an airline truly believes in bringing the world to ASEAN and ASEAN to the world, we will continue to strengthen our presence in this dynamic region that is home to over 700 million people. We look forward to leveraging our extensive network, increased frequencies, and robust operational capabilities across the region to strengthen integration and foster greater cooperation among member states, contributing to a more interconnected region. Looking ahead, we aim to welcome 75 million guests on board this year, with half of these travellers expected to come from the ASEAN region.” “Today’s announcement of increased flight frequencies within ASEAN highlights AirAsia’s dedication to driving tourism and economic growth in the region. By expanding our route network and providing more accessible air travel options, we are not just connecting destinations – we are investing in the future of ASEAN, bridging cultures and creating new opportunities for everyone,” said AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla.
