Malaysia`s no-frills airline, AirAsia came up tops in Boeing`s list for having the best utilization and…
Malaysia`s no-frills airline, AirAsia came up tops in Boeing`s list for having the best utilization and dispatch reliability amongst players in the airline industry.
What this means is that AirAsia, which prides itself in its quality service despite having low fares, and has one of the highest standards in safety measures, is successful in operating more flights out of its aircraft schedule and is on time for all its departures, said its chief executive officer, Tony Fernandes.
He said efficient utilization and dispatch reliability were some of the key factors that helped keep its costs low, and this in turn, enabled the airline to offer its passengers low fares and a high quality product.
Being recognized for it (best utilization and dispatch reliability), is a wonderful achievement for all in AirAsia, said Fernandes in a statement.
Last year, the airline flew 3.1 million passengers and its flights were 98 percent on time, he said.
Ultimately it all boils down to offering great choices and adding more value to our guests when they fly AirAsia, he said.
AirAsia was named Asia Pacific Airline of the Year 2003 by the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) in an awards ceremony held at Raffles City Convention Centre, Singapore last Thursday. The accolade was jointly shared with Virgin Blue.
Boeing sales director for South Pacific and South East Asia, Jim Belz said: The best measures of an efficient fleet operation are high daily utilization coupled with high dispatch reliability. AirAsia excels on both metrics.
In fact, the world`s leader among operators of 737-300/-400/-500 aircraft with the highest composite score for these metrics is AirAsia. AirAsia`s customers benefit from this very impressive performance by enjoying many flight choices and by knowing that the flight they choose will depart on time, said Belz.
Not only is AirAsia a market leader in stimulating travel and tourism in the region, it sets an outstanding example for providing maximum value to the customer through the importance it places on both the reliability and high utilization of its 737 fleet, added Belz.
AirAsia currently operates 13 aircraft on a 12 aircraft schedule. AirAsia`s aircraft interior is outfitted with signature red carpeting and plush leather seats to enable its passengers to travel in comfort.
Meanwhile, AirAsia Thai operations first international flight serving Bangkok – Singapore took off on its maiden flight Monday.
The route connecting Bangkok and Singapore was announced earlier this month.
Bookings commenced on Feb 7, with fares from baht 1300 (S$ 59.99) one way. Presently, AirAsia has received 40 percent bookings of the Bangkok – Singapore route through its various distribution channels.
We are pleased to be the first low fares airline to bring our service to Changi Airport Singapore. Ultimately, we are offering an affordable alternative to move traffic from Thailand to Singapore and vice versa, said AirAsia Thailand CEO, Tassapon Bijleveld in a separate statement.
He said its second hub in Senai, Johor, also servicing Bangkok, would fit perfectly to supplement Bangkok – Singapore service in Singapore.
Moving forward, we will work closely with the Tourism Authority Of Thailand, and Singapore Tourism Board to promote this new service (Bangkok – Singapore) and to drive healthy traffic between both countries, he said.
AirAsia Thailand commenced operations on Feb 3 with flights to Hatyai, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Khon Kaen from Bangkok International Airport.
Its Thai operations have to date carried over 15,000 passengers, and is set to achieve 80 percent load factor for the month of February. The Thai unit has so far generated 10.1 million baht in Internet sales, representing 38 percent of AirAsia`s total sales received from online booking. (BERNAMA)
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
