Leading low-cost carrier AirAsia Aviation Group is set to introduce over 30 new routes set to launch in 2025, with the Philippines as a key market, as part of its push to boost regional and domestic connectivity.
In a statement, AirAsia Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bo Lingam said the company’s focus this year is on optimizing its route network with frequency increases among high-demand routes in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, and the Philippines.
This aims to support growth in high-demand destinations such as India, China, and throughout Southeast Asia.
“In 2025, as we return to full capacity, we’ll be balancing sustainable growth with profitability. Our network strategy will prioritize strategic, demand-driven connectivity across Asia,” said Lingam.
“With over 30 new routes and increased frequencies on our most popular services, we are responding directly to market demand and Fly-Thru connecting opportunities,” he added.
Fly-Thru, the carrier’s service that conveniently connects passengers from one flight to another, saw its traffic grow to 4.3 million in 2024.
AirAsia is targeting over seven million Fly-Thru guests this year, which should account for approximately 10 percent of total passengers.
“This growth supported by the reactivation of 16 aircraft and the delivery of 14 new aircraft in 2025 will form the backbone of our ongoing expansion plans,” said Lingam.
As part of its growth forecast, AirAsia Philippines will be ramping up its Taiwan service from 14 weekly flights to 17, starting July.
AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla said this is part of the airline’s vow to democratize air travel, while providing Filipinos the access to their dream destinations.
“We look forward to supporting AirAsia Aviation Group’s strategy to enhance connectivity for both domestic and international services focused on flying the most profitable and popular routes,” said Isla.
These expansion efforts are aligned with the near completion of the proposed acquisition of AirAsia by its long-haul associate AirAsia X Berhad from Malaysian investment firm Capital A Berhad.
The consolidation of these airlines into a robust aviation group will further enhance AirAsia’s position in the industry, as well as lay the foundation for a more sustainable and profitable future.
This year, AirAsia Aviation Group expects to operate a fleet of 234 narrowbody aircraft across the airline’s five short-haul airlines, restoring its pre-pandemic capacity.
Only 16 aircrafts remain to be reactivated, while 14 new aircraft deliveries have been confirmed for 2025—four from Airbus and 10 via lessors.