AirAsia reveals Melbourne Airport switch

AirAsia X Malaysia is to operate twice daily flights to Kuala Lumpur from Avalon Airport, becoming the Australian airport’s first international carrier.

The airline will switch its existing service from Melbourne Airport to Avalon later this year.

“We are proud to be the first airline to operate international flights at Avalon Airport, connecting Melbourne and the Victorian region with Kuala Lumpur, Asia’s number one LCC hub,” said AirAsia X Malaysia chief executive Benyamin Ismail.

“Melbourne and Victoria are important markets to us and this new service with 560,000 seats annually will provide a significant boost to business and tourism, including to such attractions as the Great Ocean Road.”

Avalon Airport’s chief executive Justin Giddings said the ten-year agreement with AirAsia X was structured to accommodate the carrier’s “significant growth”.

“It is the first such deal in Australia, and provides a unique low-cost opportunity for people and businesses to access over 130 destinations throughout Asia,” he added.

“Low-cost flights combined with an easy airport experience makes for the perfect partnership.”

David Casey

David Casey is Editor in Chief of Routes, the global route development community's trusted source for news and information.