AirAsia has confirmed that it is to launch flights to Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam) in April, and then Hong Kong and Haikou in China in May 2008, growing its route network to a total of 93. The 3 new routes are part of AirAsia’s aggressive Airbus A320 rollout programme to further strengthen its network in the region.
Beginning 15 April 2008, Ho Chi Minh will receive AirAsia’s brand new Airbus A320 at the Tan Son Nhat International Airport. This is further strengthened by AirAsia’s sister company, Thai AirAsia who will be starting its inaugural flight into the city on 4 April 2008. Fares will start from RM49.99/US$10.
By 15 May 2008, AirAsia will start Kuala Lumpur-Hong Kong services with fares starting from RM49.99/HK$99. Hong Kong has long been on the radar for many business travelers and a shopping haven for many tourists. The bustling city is one of the largest financial centres in China, a major international air hub for some of the biggest airlines in the world and a popular tourist destination.
Situated at the north of Hainan Island, Haikou is China’s biggest island with over 8 million in population. AirAsia will launch a direct flight into Haikou from 22 May 2008 with introductory fares starting from RM29.99/CNY68, AirAsia will be tapping into a market of 400,000 Hainanese who are based in Malaysia.
Haikou enjoys a long coastline that features beautiful beaches. The city has many sightseeing attractions including important historical sites such as The Wugong Temple, the Tomb of Hai Rui and the Xiuying Emplacement, the scenic Nanli Lake, great Hainanese food, and even has the ‘kissing fish therapy’ (fishes that nibble at one’s body as part of an underwater skin-cleansing care). With so many attractions, Haikou is a tropical seaside city in every way.
Kathleen Tan, AirAsia, “At AirAsia, we have created new travel demand and with our low fares, we know we will continue to do the same for the three new destinations. The region is getting closer with enhanced connectivity and we are determined to bridge the cultural gap and foster closer ties between families and friends by working closely with Tourism Malaysia to boost traffic between the countries.”