IDR gets a boost from AirAsia with enhanced connectivity
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Southeast Asia,
AirAsia
(CAPA) AirAsias Southern hub in Johor received its first A320 on 28-Aug-07 with the launch of international services from Senai International Airport, setting the pace for greater connectivity for the Iskandar Development Region (IDR). In line with IDRs aim to become Southern Peninsular Malaysias most developed region, this occasion also marks a step closer towards an all-Airbus fleet in Malaysia by AirAsia.
To commemorate the occasion, the airline simultaneously launched direct services from Johor Bahru to Macau and Palembang, Indonesia.
Tony Fernandes, Group CEO, AirAsia, said, “With IDR becoming a burgeoning vibrant metropolis complete with land, rail, and sea accessibility, it is our aim and responsibility as a national carrier through strategic aircraft allocation and capacity planning to enhance the connectivity to fully support the region in realizing its full potential as the southern gateway of Malaysia. Our commitment is evident through the allocation of the first of many more Airbus A320 aircraft here in our Johor hub.”
AirAsia’s Johor hub with the new routes serve a total of 84 weekly services from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Miri, Sibu, Tawau, Sandakan and now Macau and Palembang and the airline will soon operate daily service to Jakarta in Sep-07 from the hub.
On why Macau was chosen as one of Johor’s international destination, Dato’ Tony added, “Macau today is one of our hottest and most desired destinations where we have recorded significant growth and consistently enjoyed high loads. In view of the growing demand for accessibility, we were encouraged to introduce direct flights from Johor to Macau to attract local visitors from Macau and those entering Macau to see the many facets of Malaysia or even cross over to Singapore. From Johor, they can then travel to Kuala Lumpur and return to Macau from there. With Macau’s strategic position as a gaming and entertainment centre in Asia, the attraction of Macau is undeniable; hence we are confident that this route will do well.”
“We also saw the untapped opportunity to provide direct connectivity for business community in Malaysia to travel low fares to Palembang for their businesses. This route is also to serve the huge labour workforce working in Malaysia and Singapore.”
The airline will operate daily services from Johor Bahru to Macau, and three weekly services to Palembang.
Date posted: 30-Aug-07
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IDR gets a boost from AirAsia with enhanced connectivity 
