ASIA LCC WIDEBODY FLEET: AirAsia X to triple fleet size in 10 years

ASIA'S LCC WIDEBODY FLEET is poised to double in size, at least, over the next decade, driven primarily by expansion at AirAsia X. The AirAsia X Group has committed to acquiring up to 100 A330- 900neos for delivery from 2020 to 2028. AirAsia X already accounts for 34% of the widebody aircraft operated by Asia Pacific LCCs. The 100 aircraft AirAsia X has ordered represent more than three times the size of its current fleet and larger than the current widebody fleet of all Asia Pacific LCCs combined.

AirAsia X will continue to dominate this segment as other Asia Pacific widebody LCCs are pursuing relatively modest expansion. Rather than adding new generation widebody aircraft, several of the region's LCC groups are focusing more on new generation narrowbody aircraft, which offer significantly improved range and density, for their expansion. AirAsia X is also now planning to add new generation narrowbody aircraft and is negotiating to convert 40 of the 100 A330-900neo orders to A321neos or A321neoLRs