In a move signaling a resurgence in the aviation industry, AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL) has announced the launch of its fifth airline, AirAsia Cambodia (flight code KT), scheduled to commence operations on 02 May 2024. This milestone underscores AirAsia’s position as the world’s leading low-cost airline and its commitment to bolstering its presence in the ASEAN region.
The decision to establish AirAsia Cambodia comes amidst the ongoing recovery efforts in the aviation sector following the unprecedented challenges posed by the global pandemic. Despite facing one of the most severe crises in aviation history, AirAsia remains resilient, demonstrating a determination to reclaim growth and expand its operations.
“The launch of AirAsia Cambodia marks another momentous occasion for AirAsia in providing low cost and high value travel for the people of Asean to connect with friends and family and explore the region and beyond. After the most challenging period, the new airline is a significant milestone in our incredible journey of expansion and recovery from the turbulence posed by the pandemic. With the aviation sector in its infancy, Cambodia and its 17 million population, offers a wealth of opportunities from cultural, historical and natural experiences, and we are proud to be able to connect travellers from all over the world to this remarkable country,” according to Tan Sri Jamaludin Ibrahim, Chairman of AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL).
Operating out of Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), AirAsia Cambodia will initially deploy a fleet of two (02) Airbus A320 aircraft. This strategic move not only strengthens AirAsia’s foothold in Cambodia but also signifies the airline’s profound understanding of the ASEAN market and its dedication to delivering exceptional service and value to customers across the region.
“Our founders Datuk Kamarudin Meranun and Tony Fernandes have always had a vision to make ASEAN a smaller place and it gives us great privilege to continue that legacy. AirAsia has a long history in Cambodia and we see much untapped potential in the region, including the opportunity to train and graduate hundreds of skilled pilots, engineers, and other professional aviation skilled workers, much like how we have done in Malaysia, Thailand and the rest of the countries we operate in. The launch of AirAsia Cambodia further cements our mission to truly own ASEAN for affordable travel, where our brand and footprint is strongest. Historically, we have a total of 6 routes into Cambodia across the Group, carrying 1.3 million passengers into the kingdom. We remain focused on building the most incredible network in our core markets that can’t be surpassed with the best connectivity and flight frequencies. Everything great starts with two planes. We aim to grow AirAsia Cambodia to a fleet of 60 planes in the next 5 years. With the pending merger of all of the AirAsia airlines in the Group as a single listed company, including medium haul affiliate airline AirAsia X, we will have seven airlines leveraging off one another to over 130 destinations and growing. This will truly transform the future of short and longer haul air travel across ASEAN and beyond,” said Bo Lingam, Group CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL).
With its renowned brand reputation and loyal customer base, AirAsia is poised to make a substantial impact on Cambodia’s aviation landscape. The airline’s expansion plans include an order for over 300 new aircraft specifications across the entire AirAsia Group, further cementing its commitment to growth and innovation in the aviation industry.