AirAsiaX is also a Virgin

Filed in archive Budget Asia on August 14, 2007

After a long and eventually successful battle, Sir richard branson finally got into the US market with the launch of Virgin America a couple of days ago. And now, it looks a lot like the Virgin Group is targeting the next continent/market on its list... ASIA!

Virgin Group now has a 20% stake in AirAsia X, the long-haul Malaysian budget carrier of AirAsia.

According to Tony Fernandes, AirAsiaX (with the help of Virgin Group's investment, I suppose) will expand the market for long-haul, value based travel. "AirAsia X will simplify the current long-haul product and provide highly affordable, value-for-money travel without sacrificing core passenger comforts essential over longer flight times."

Initially, AirAsiaX plans to fly between its hub Malaysia and Australia sometime in September or October. It will later expand its services to Japan, Korea, the Middle East, India and China.

Virgin Airways' bid for world domination perhaps? Not far from the truth, I suppose, since they even already have Virgin Galactic and Virgin Nigeria.

In any case, it's good news for budget travelers all over the world!

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Response from: Mat Chendol (09/04/07 2:13am)

AirAsiaX Airbus 330-300 is more suited for up to 5 or 7 hours travel. It would not be suitable for destinations further if a refuel stop is needed. Mr Tony Fernandez has made a mistake and not going a wide body aircraft from Boeing say the Dreamline or 777 or the airbus Wide Body. Apart from the 777, the other aircraft will put AirAsiaX into a alter ego and will have to wait till 2010 for newer aircraft. Mr Fernandez is a man in a hurry and making mistakes. Mr Fernandez had not done his homework in asking the public if they prefer a stop over in Dubai for 2 hours. Emirates and Qatar and Gulf Air are more superior that AirAsia with the same flight configuration. Most will say no with respect ot the fares AirAsiaX will charge. Passengers will abandone AirAsiaX shortly. Co- habitating with Branson is another mistake by Tony Fernandez. Much of his avaition successes will not shine with Branson who will steal the limelight from a Red BaseBall Wearing Fernandez which actually kills his media profile. Sad to say. AirAsia strategy is price and discomfort.