Today (Friday) AirAsia launched its maiden flight from Taipei to Kota Kinabalu - establishing the airport as its second largest Malaysian hub after Kuala Lumpur.

The route will operate daily using an A320.

AirAsia's chairman, Dato’ Aziz Bakar said: "We are confident that this new route will stimulate more travel between these two destinations and enhance tourism activities. The response from the public is very encouraging for all three cities from our hubs in Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and Kota Kinabalu to Taipei."

"Since April last year we have carried 129, 000 guests both inbound and outbound from Taipei sand the numbers are still growing. I believe we have successfully established an important ‘bridge’ between Kota Kinabalu and Taipei and have made air travel more accessible for both leisure and business travellers."