AirAsia signs MoU with Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents

AirAsia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA). The partnership will see the two working together to achieve a shared goal of providing affordable travel for government servants across Asia.

 

Under the new agreement, MATTA and AirAsia will jointly promote the airline’s recently introduced Government Fare Scheme, an initiative supporting the Federal Government of Malaysia’s efforts to manage public funds efficiently, by offering government officials a discounted rate between 20-30% of the published fares on all AirAsia destinations. AirAsia’s vast route network provides extensive connectivity from domestic to ASEAN and the rest of Asia, and its high flight frequency enables government officials to travel to more meetings in different destinations more often, making official duties more efficient.

Dato’ Aziz Bakar, Chairman of AirAsia Berhad, said: “The MoU will ensure that our Government Fare Scheme is maximised across all federal departments. As the people’s national airline we are committed to supporting the government’s dedication to keep costs at a minimum, by providing low fares and 5 star services to our guests. With this scheme, government officials are given the advantage of affordable low fares as well as enjoy Xpress boarding, check in baggage of up to 15kg and a choice of hot meals at no extra charge.”

“Ultimately, the agreement with MATTA will extend AirAsia’s reach further and assist us in our ongoing endeavour to make travel accessible and a reality for all,” concluded Dato’ Aziz.

This system allows government officials to book their flights online via government appointed travel agents  registered with AirAsia, by producing mandatory details such as Pukal Number, Warrant Serial Number and Object Code. Bookings under the Warrant system are subjected to a specialized set of terms and conditions. 

AirAsia will supply booking engines to MATTA appointed travel agents, as well as ongoing staff training. Agents will also have the opportunity to participate in familiarisation trips organised by AirAsia to help develop a better understanding of the destinations accessed by AirAsia’s extensive route network.

Mr. Ngiam Foon, President of MATTA, said: “AirAsia’s revolutionary low fare is an additional advantage for us to drive this sector and ultimately improve our overall business opportunity. We strongly believe that our members will give their fullest cooperation to AirAsia in ensuring the success of this particular sector. This hopefully will provide everyone with more business and to sustain their establishment in difficult times like this in the industry. Lastly, I would like to personally convey MATTA’s deepest appreciation to AirAsia for this mutual understanding and hope that both parties will grow together and reap the benefits in the future.”

(c) Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation. Date posted: 12-Sep-08

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