A350 XWB is key for the future development of AirAsia X
Surrounded by bright red banners, including one with the slogan: “Absolute Airbus,” the director and founder of AirAsia X today announced his airline has become the latest A350 XWB customer – ordering 10 next-generation A350-900s, and taking options for five more.
Speaking to reporters at a Paris Air Show press conference, Tony Fernandes said the A350 XWBs will be used to link his fast-growing airline’s Asian hub in Kuala Lumpur with destinations worldwide. “We really believe these aircraft will make low cost travel available to everyone, and we’ll use them to Europe, America South America and parts of Africa,” he said.
Fernandes sounded an upbeat note on the future of Air Asia, saying the addition of A350 XWBs will open a new chapter in the carrier’s development.
“There is a little sunshine out there, if you go out there to find the business and develop the opportunity,” he added. “With these new aircraft, we’re building on a partnership with Airbus that has been fantastic, and we wouldn’t be here really without its tremendous support.”
Deliveries of the A350-900s will begin in the first quarter of 2016, joining AirAsia’s fleet of A320s and A330s.
