AirAsia Adds 5.2 Million Seats for India and China Post Visa-Free Entry Declaration

In a major boost for regional tourism, AirAsia has announced a significant increase in flights between China, India, and Malaysia. The airline will operate 230 weekly flights between these countries starting in the first quarter of 2024, offering up to 5.2 million seats per year.

30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Chinese and Indian Travellers

This strategic boost in capacity by AirAsia Malaysia and AirAsia X Malaysia follows the recent announcement by the Malaysian government regarding a 30-day visa-free entry for travellers from China and India.

Effective from December 01, this progressive initiative is expected to fuel a surge in travel demand, prompting the airline’s proactive response.

AirAsia’s Enthusiastic Response

Tony Fernandes, CEO of AirAsia, expressed his excitement, stating, “This is a huge, much-anticipated news not only for AirAsia but for the country.”

He extended gratitude to the Malaysian government, particularly Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, for their forward-thinking approach.

Fernandes also highlighted AirAsia’s commitment to facilitating travel to Malaysia and acknowledged the visa-free entry as a significant boost for the nation’s tourism and economy, especially as the peak travel season approaches.

Also Read: Malaysia Airlines to Offer Unlimited Free Wi-Fi to All Passengers

AirAsia’s Extensive Network in China and India

As the largest foreign low-cost carrier in China, AirAsia Malaysia and AirAsia X Malaysia operate a total of 17 routes in the country with 156 weekly flights.

The airlines have also increased frequencies to nine routes into India, offering 74 weekly flights. AirAsia Malaysia serves Bengaluru, Kolkata, Cochin, Hyderabad, Chennai, Trichy, and Trivandrum in India, and AirAsia X Malaysia connects Kuala Lumpur to New Delhi and Amritsar.

With an estimated 4.6 million guests expected to travel on AirAsia’s network between China and India in 2024 alone, the airline is poised to play a pivotal role in achieving Malaysia’s ambitious tourism targets of 25 million international tourists annually.

Conclusion

The visa-free entry policy for travellers from China and India is a game-changer for regional tourism and economic development. AirAsia’s significant increase in flights between these countries will further strengthen connectivity and facilitate the movement of people and goods, leading to increased trade, investment, and cultural exchange.