AirAsia Group expects positive 4Q2013 and will take delivery of 12 aircraft

AirAsia Group released (20-Nov-2013) its expectations for 4Q2013 as follows:

• Fleet: Will take delivery of 12 A320 aircraft in 4Q2013 with four to be deployed to Thai AirAsia and eight to AirAsia. Five aircraft will also be redeployed from Malaysia to Philippines AirAsia, four from Japan with three to go to Indonesia AirAsia and one to Philippines AirAsia;
• AirAsia: Forward loads for the remaining months of 4Q2013 are higher than the same period in 2012 with base fares slightly lower. The carrier expects passenger numbers to be particularly strong in Nov-2013 and Dec-2013 during the year end holiday period and remain strong for the rest of 4Q2013 in line with seasonal patterns;
• Thai AirAsia: Demand is expected to be strong with its fleet to increase to 35 aircraft, representing a full year capacity increase of 25%. Forward loads and the average fares are higher than in 4Q2012;
• Indonesia AirAsia: Delivery of three new aircraft will result in year-on-year additional capacity of 30% with the aircraft to be deployed to Bali, Bandung and Jakarta. The demand in Oct-2013 and Nov-2013, especially on international routes, is expected to be slightly impacted by the depreciation of the Rupiah. The outlook for Dec-2013 is positive with forward loads slightly lower compared to the previous year as a consequence of new route launches;
• Philippines AirAsia: Outlook is cautiously optimistic, due to the seasonal increase in consumer demand, stable macroeconomic conditions, and expected rise in investments following the investment-grade credit rating for the Philippines. AirAsia Group stated it is unclear how much the recent impact of Typhoon Yolanda will dampen project economic growth trends. Loads and fares are expected to be higher than 4Q2012;
• Group: Outlook for 4Q2013 should be see in the context of the current prices of oil and aviation fuel with prospects for the quarter remaining positive. [more - original PR]