AirAsia adds second daily flight to Hong Kong

Since the launch of the first flight on 15-May-08, the overwhelming demand from travellers has grown tremendously not only from holidaymakers but also from those with business ventures in the region. Business travellers may make the most of the cheaper fares offered by the only low-cost airline to connect the two regions.

Commenting on the increased frequency Kathleen Tan, Regional Head of Commercial, AirAsia, said: “At a time when some airlines are cutting routes and downsizing capacity, AirAsia is breaking the trend with our expansion plans, adding services where there is proven demand, which there certainly is for the Hong Kong route.

“In the current economic climate, corporate organisations are doing all they can to reduce their controllable spending- such as air travel. We are looking at creating demand at the lowest possible fares. Corporate travellers will now have smarter alternative travelling choices to fly low cost and at the same time given choices of pre booking hot meals online, Xpress boarding and other value added services offered via our seamless online booking. ”

Since the launch of the route 3 months ago, the average monthly load factor has exceeded 85%. This early indication has supported the introduction of the extra service to accommodate growing demand for this currently under-served route. The second daily service will start on 27-Aug-08.

“Hong Kong has always been a prominent destination due to its significance as a growing centre of international commercial and financial hub. Due to its ever growing potential, many Malaysians are starting to venture into the region to look for business prospects. Furthermore, it has long been on the radar as shopping and cultural haven for leisure tourists. In fact, with the Hong Kong International Airport’s exclusive infrastructure, serving as an international hub feeding on traffic to international destinations has allowed us to expand and tap new markets. We are excited to be pioneering the low cost model in Hong Kong, and to be extending our notoriously low fares to passengers throughout the region.”

“The number of youth travellers from Hong Kong to Malaysia has also increased as Malaysia offers a variety of vacation spots with white sandy beaches and historical sites as a holiday getaway. We also hope to tap new markets such as the expatriate community in Hong Kong and create latent demand for the route with the added frequency. The launch of the 2nd daily flight has come at the right time as travellers are now planning for year end holidays.”

The Hong Kong route forms part of AirAsia’s strategy to establish Kuala Lumpur as a gateway to other Asia destinations, using its vast route network across Asia. The airline’s relationship with its long-haul affiliate AirAsia X will also connect traffic from Australia to the Chinese city.

 
 
(c) Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation. Date posted: 05-Aug-08

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