Low-haul low-cost model can work effectively: AirAsia X

AirAsia X reports Kuala Lumpur-London Stansted ticket sales exceeded 75,000 in six months since the launch of the route, with load factors of over 85% (holidayextras.co.uk, 14-Sep-2009).

AirAsia X: "The surging demand for the London-KL route is testament to the fact that there is a strong appetite for low-cost, long-haul travel, despite the tough economic conditions…The success of this route, and indeed the other long-haul routes we have launched from Kuala Lumpur recently, including Abu Dhabi in the Middle East and Chengdu in China, prove that the long-haul low-cost model can work effectively. Our model hinges on the extensive multi-hub route network and means that we are able to offer the same connectivity as a normal legacy network carrier, but without the cost and complications of running a traditional hub," Azran Osman-Rani, CEO. Source: holidayextras.co.uk, 14-Sep-2009.