AirAsia celebrates one year at Avalon Airport launching groundbreaking biometric technology

AirAsia has marked its first anniversary of flying from Melbourne Avalon Airport by unveiling the future of travel with an international first for the airline in biometric technology.

Earlier today AirAsia X Malaysia CEO Benyamin Ismail and Avalon Airport CEO Justin Giddings reflected on a successful first year partnership and detailed the future for the world's best low cost airline eleven years running and Victoria's newest international airport, also recently named Major Airport of the Year.

AirAsia X Malaysia CEO Benyamin Ismail said "When we cut the cake today we celebrated more than just a year of aircraft movements at Avalon. We also recognised the hard work of our staff, the support of the local community and the loyalty of our guests.

"We have carried nearly half a million visitors from and to Avalon Airport this year which has undoubtedly provided a significant boost to the local economy, generated additional jobs, and helped to lay the foundations for new business and trade opportunities in the region.

"Melbournians love AirAsia's extensive network as evidenced by the fact that they are the most likely to connect on to one of our 150 destinations than guests from any other Australian State.

"I can't think of a better way to celebrate one year of our thriving partnership with Avalon Airport than to make it the first international airport outside of Southeast Asia to feature our new acial recognition technology.

"Operations at Avalon Airport will now be more efficient and the guest experience enhanced thanks to our unique Fast Airport Clearance Experience System (F.A.C.E.S), which allows passengers to fast track the boarding process by removing the need for human intervention at the gate."

Avalon Airport CEO Justin Giddings said "It's hard to believe it's been twelve months since inaugural AirAsia flight D7218 touched down at Avalon Airport.

"The partnership has been an outstanding success for passengers, AirAsia, Avalon and the State.

"The AirAsia flights have opened up the region to so many international tourists, and have created a more convenient and affordable way for Victorians to travel overseas."

AirAsia relocated its services from Melbourne Tullamarine on 5 December 2018 to become the first international airline to operate at Melbourne Avalon Airport.

Guests travelling with AirAsia benefit from a range of other 'Avalon Advantages' including cheaper parking, no Tullamarine freeway tolls, new airport infrastructure and a hassle-free arrival and departure process.