AirAsia beefing up PH fleet with 3 more aircraft

Malaysia-based Capital A intends to expand its fleet in the Philippines by an additional three aircraft within this year amid strong growth potential in this market, according to a top executive of the company formerly known as AirAsia Group.

Chester Voo, the deputy chief executive officer of the airline’s holding company AirAsia Aviation Group Ltd., on Thursday apprised reporters of plans for their Philippine operations.

“Talking about our presence in the Philippines, with a load factor of 95 percent, it makes perfect sense to add more capacity because there is more room to grow,” Voo said.

“At 95 percent, your aircraft is almost full. So, we’ll add a bit more,” he added. “But this depends on obtaining the slots in Manila.”

As to their overall fleet which spans seven countries, Voo said they would further raise the number of their aircraft from 188 to 239.

AirAsia is looking to hit 75 million passengers this year, with over 3,200 flights weekly in the next six months.

The airline also announced the latest route in its network from Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia to Da Lat, Vietnam.

The announcement coincided with the 57th Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Day celebration held at the AirAsia headquarters in the Malaysian capital.

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“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 Asean,” the company said in a statement.

The company added that the increased frequency of flights and the resumed routes are expected to significantly boost tourism by providing more options and flexibility to travelers.

In 2023, AirAsia recorded over 61 million passengers, with more than 33 percent traveling across Southeast Asia.

“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,” Bo Lingam, CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group, said in a separate statement.