AirAsia Group considering expansion in Australia, Central Asia, Europe, Middle East and US
AirAsia Group head of airport partnerships and incentives Michael Simionescu, speaking at Routes Asia 2025, stated (27-Mar-2025) the carrier is considering further expansion in Australia, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East and US. Mr Simionescu said the airline's Almaty service "has been very successful" and the carrier is considering "maybe one or two additions" in Central Asia in 2025. He said AirAsia is also "looking to potentially extend our footprint in Australia" in 2025 and is "looking further into the Middle East". The carrier aims to serve Europe and the US in the coming years, potentially launching as fifth freedom connections before going nonstop when suitable aircraft are available.
Background ✨
AirAsia X had been considering expansion into Europe, the US, and Africa as part of its strategy for growth, but faced challenges due to economic conditions and high costs1. The airline explored potential new routes in Australia, including Adelaide, Canberra, and Cairns, but focused on key routes like Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney2. Additionally, AirAsia aimed to expand its network by introducing AirAsia Plus and increasing domestic flights in Malaysia3.