AirAsia CEO: no scaleback in plans despite MAS, AirAsia X agreement

AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes said that there will be no scaleback in the company's future plans to expand its fleet and air destinations despite the Comprehensive Collaboration Framework Agreement valued at approximately USD364 million signed with MAS and AirAsia X Sdn Bhd (Bernama, 09-Aug-2011). Mr Fernandes stated that entering into the framework will not change AirAsia's identity as it is aimed at focusing on the core competency of each airline company. The partnership will see both carriers review their network services and seek cooperation on routes and opening "flights to new destinations currently not served" by either.

AirAsia "I think we can make a lot of money. We can be more productive if we put our energies together rather than working against each other ... Our objective is to grow. We have to stop thinking small. We want to compete with the big players like Emirates. There is no need for MAS and AirAsia to cut routes [following the tie-up]. This is not about rationalisation. This is about growing the market ... There is plenty of market for these two airlines." CEO, Tan Sri Tony Fernandes. Source: AFP, 09-Aug-2011.