Last month, Malaysian low-cost carrier AirAsia X received approval from the United States, becoming the first Asian low-cost airline cleared to operate services to the country.
With authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration in hand, AirAsia X is planning routes to several U.S. destinations, including Hawai’i. The carrier’s move marks a significant step beyond its core markets in Asia, Australasia and the Middle East.
“Our expansion up until now has concentrated on Asia, Australasia and the Middle East, and we are excited about our first foray into an entirely new market as we look beyond Asia Pacific,” said Kamarudin Meranun, CEO of AirAsia X, in a company statement.
AirAsia X is also exploring the possibility of resuming its former London (LHR) service, which was discontinued in March 2012 largely due to high taxes and operating costs. The airline continues to pursue the approvals required to restart flights to the UK.
An AirAsia X spokesman confirmed the airline is working toward necessary regulatory clearances to reinstate London routes, while other reports indicate the carrier is assessing additional long-haul options such as Frankfurt (FRA) in Germany.
As AirAsia X evaluates expansion into transpacific and transcontinental markets, the airline will need to address operational, regulatory and commercial challenges, including bilateral traffic rights, airport slots and competitive pricing. If successful, these new services could broaden AirAsia X’s route network and offer more low-cost long-haul choices for travelers between Asia and major global destinations.