AirAsia X resumes Gold Coast – Auckland route

AirAsia X is set to meet rising travel demand by reinstating its Gold Coast – Auckland route, starting from 3 February 2024.

Simultaneously, the airline will temporarily suspend services on the Auckland – Sydney route, effective 31 January 2024, to facilitate the new connection to and from the Gold Coast.

The decision follows a comprehensive network review, as stated by AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail, emphasizing the commitment to Auckland as a key destination. With the Gold Coast being a preferred leisure spot for Auckland and Asian travellers, the airline aims to meet the demand for trans-Tasman travel.

AirAsia X’s strategic network review

In response to the suspension of services between Sydney and Auckland, AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail highlighted the airline’s dedication to Auckland as a destination. The decision, part of a strategic network review, aligns with AirAsia X’s commitment to meeting the evolving travel demands of its passengers.

The Gold Coast, the airline’s inaugural route 16 years ago, continues to attract travellers with its renowned white sand beaches and popular theme parks. Ismail hinted at the possibility of resuming the Sydney – Auckland service if demand picks up, underlining the airline’s adaptability to changing travel patterns.

Queensland Airports Limited Chief Commercial Officer Adam Rowe welcomed the return of AirAsia X’s Gold Coast to Auckland route, citing it as an exciting addition to the network. With the Gold Coast – Auckland connection being the busiest international route, Rowe expressed enthusiasm, noting that more than 220,000 passengers have travelled on this route since January.

The return of the service is expected to add over 350,000 extra seats annually, providing increased options for travellers.

AirAsia X as a leisure-focused airline

Starting 3 February 2024, AirAsia X will operate three weekly flights from Auckland to the Gold Coast, seamlessly connecting to Kuala Lumpur. This addition will contribute 6,786 visitor seats weekly through Gold Coast Airport.

Fares for the Auckland – Gold Coast route are now available, starting at AUD199/NZ179. The move reinforces AirAsia X’s position as a leisure-focused airline, responding to the growing demand for trans-Tasman travel to and from the Gold Coast.

AirAsia X continues to experience robust demand for its services, evident in recent flight increases from Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth to Kuala Lumpur. The sister airline, Thai AirAsia X, will reintroduce Flatbeds on flights between Sydney and Bangkok from 27 November.

Additionally, Indonesia AirAsia has boosted frequencies on the Perth – Bali route, flying up to four times daily. The airline is actively reviewing more flights on existing routes and exploring new destinations as part of its growth strategy across the Asia Pacific.

As AirAsia X continues its growth strategy, more flights on existing popular routes and the exploration of new destinations are under consideration. The airline’s commitment to providing diverse travel options remains unwavering, connecting passengers to over 130 destinations across Asia through its main hub in Kuala Lumpur.