Good news for some Australian lovers of low-coast flights, but bad news for those based in Sydney
AirAsia today announced it is strengthening its network with planned frequency increases across its Perth–Denpasar, Perth-Kuala Lumpur and Melbourne-Kuala Lumpur services.
But as part As part of the rationalisation, the airline has made the "difficult decision" to suspend its Sydney-Kuala Lumpur route.
The decision reflects a combination of increased cost pressures, softer demand and the need to strategically align the airline’s network and fleet, the airline said in a media statement.
From December, Perth–Denpasar services will increase to 35 flights per week, while the strong performance of Melbourne–Kuala Lumpur will see the route return to daily services.
Perth–Kuala Lumpur has also experienced significant growth, with frequencies set to steadily increase to 14 flights per week.
Benyamin Ismail, general manager of AirAsia X said the decision was not made lightly, and acknowledged the Sydney-Kuala Lumpur route is key to supporting Fly-Thru and serves customers who travel to visit friends and family across ASEAN.
“This has been an incredibly difficult decision, and one that has not been taken lightly," he said.
"Sydney, which was launched back in 2012, has played an important role in our history and in connecting Australians with Malaysia and the wider region.
“The current operating environment requires us to make some tough choices. By accelerating the retirement of older, less fuel-efficient widebody aircraft and adjusting our network, we are taking the necessary steps to build a more resilient and commercially sustainable operation for the future.
“We understand how disappointing this will be for our guests, particularly those who have travelled with us over many years, and we sincerely thank them for their understanding and support."
The airline's teams are contacting affected customers from today, offering refunds which will be completed within 14 days, a Credit Account or date changes.
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