AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL) celebrates yet another major milestone as the world’s leading low cost airline with the confirmation of the launch of its fifth airline, AirAsia Cambodia (flight code KT), which is set for take off from 2 May 2024.
The launch of the new airline comes amidst a pivotal moment for the aviation industry as it continues to rebound from the worst aviation crisis in history. AirAsia’s decision to venture into Cambodia underscores its resilience and determination to reclaim growth, despite the formidable challenges faced by the sector. The new airline will be operating out of Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), with an initial fleet of two Airbus A320s.
Tan Sri Jamaludin Ibrahim, Chairman of AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL), expressed his enthusiasm for the venture and said: “The launch of AirAsia Cambodia marks another momentous occasion for AirAsia in providing low cost and high value travel for the people of Asean to connect with friends and family and explore the region and beyond. After the most challenging period, the new airline is a significant milestone in our incredible journey of expansion and recovery from the turbulence posed by the pandemic. With the aviation sector in its infancy, Cambodia and its 17 million population, offers a wealth of opportunities from cultural, historical and natural experiences, and we are proud to be able to connect travellers from all over the world to this remarkable country.”
Bo Lingam, Group CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL) said: “Our founders Datuk Kamarudin Meranun and Tony Fernandes have always had a vision to make Asean a smaller place and it gives us great privilege to continue that legacy.
“AirAsia has a long history in Cambodia and we see much untapped potential in the region, including the opportunity to train and graduate hundreds of skilled pilots, engineers, and other professional aviation skilled workers, much like how we have done in Malaysia, Thailand and the rest of the countries we operate in. The launch of AirAsia Cambodia further cements our mission to truly own Asean for affordable travel, where our brand and footprint is strongest. Historically, we have a total of 6 routes into Cambodia across the Group, carrying 1.3 million passengers into the kingdom.
“We remain focused on building the most incredible network in our core markets that can’t be surpassed with the best connectivity and flight frequencies. Everything great starts with two planes. We aim to grow AirAsia Cambodia to a fleet of 60 planes in the next 5 years.
“With the pending merger of all of the AirAsia airlines in the Group as a single listed company, including medium haul affiliate airline AirAsia X, we will have seven airlines leveraging off one another to over 130 destinations and growing. This will truly transform the future of short and longer haul air travel across Asean and beyond.”
AirAsia’s expansion into Cambodia is a testament to the airline’s deep-rooted understanding of the Asean market and its unwavering commitment to the delivery of best value and exceptional service across the region. With its strong brand presence and a loyal customer base, AirAsia is poised to make a significant impact in Cambodia’s aviation landscape, with over 300 new specification aircraft on order across the Group.
