CJMY
AirAsia, the low-cost carrier powerhouse, continues to expand its footprint at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), which was recently ranked as the top global Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Megahub by OAG’s 2024 Megahubs Index.
The report, which also ranks KLIA as the second-most connected airport globally, highlights how AirAsia’s extensive network is driving KLIA’s success.
With over 14,500 possible low-cost connections across 137 destinations, AirAsia’s impact on KLIA’s growth is undeniable.
This development reinforces AirAsia’s commitment to expanding its operations from KLIA, which is now a major hub for both regional and international travel.
AirAsia plays key role in KLIA’s success
KLIA has firmly established itself as a global leader in connectivity, with AirAsia operating 43% of all flights and accounting for 74% of the airport’s total LCC capacity.
The airline’s network expansion continues at a rapid pace, with five new routes confirmed in the fourth quarter of 2024.
These routes will build on AirAsia’s current offering of 112 international and 14 domestic routes, helping solidify its status as a crucial player in the region.
Tony Fernandes, Capital A CEO and Advisor of AirAsia Aviation Group, remarked, “When I co-founded AirAsia 23 years ago, I envisioned a future where KLIA would stand among the global elite airports.
Today, KLIA is the second most connected airport globally, powered by AirAsia’s momentum as the leading LCC Megahub.
Our ongoing network expansion will further boost KLIA’s position among the world’s best.”
This vision is now a reality, with AirAsia serving as the largest foreign operator for routes between ASEAN countries, India, and China.
With new routes to Almaty, Nairobi, and Port Blair, AirAsia continues to explore new markets, ensuring KLIA’s relevance on the global stage.
Expanding AirAsia’s network for greater connectivity
AirAsia’s network growth is supported by its fleet expansion, with the airline receiving new A321neos to boost capacity and enhance connectivity across Asia.
According to AirAsia Aviation Group CEO Bo Lingam, the fleet reactivation plan will be completed this year, positioning the airline for rapid network growth.
“With our secured aircraft delivery stream, we can enhance connectivity across Asia and turn Southeast Asia into a key transit point through our multi-hub connectivity.”
AirAsia’s Fly-Thru service, which allows seamless travel across its network of more than 130 destinations, is another cornerstone of the airline’s growth strategy.
Bo Lingam added, “We aim to grow Fly-Thru traffic to 25% by 2025, up from 21% in 2019, further enhancing our connectivity.”
The airline’s ability to connect emerging and established markets is crucial for both business and leisure travel.
As travel demand increases across the Asia-Pacific region, AirAsia’s network expansion will meet the growing needs of travellers seeking affordable and efficient flight options.
As AirAsia continues to strengthen KLIA’s position as a global LCC Megahub, the future looks bright for both the airline and the airport.
With plans to expand further into Asia and Africa, AirAsia is not only boosting KLIA’s global standing but also reinforcing its own dominance in the low-cost carrier sector.
The airline’s commitment to expanding its fleet and enhancing connectivity reflects its dedication to making Kuala Lumpur a key player in international travel.
With increasing demand for low-cost travel and the ongoing expansion of routes, AirAsia’s contribution to KLIA’s success will continue to grow, offering travellers more options than ever before.
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