AirAsia X may accelerate NZ plan

[futaris]

http://www.travelweekly.com.au/PDFRedirect.asp?date=7_07_2010

New Zealand operations for AirAsia X have been given a renewed push by the proposed trans-Tasman alliance between Air New Zealand and Virgin Blue, writes Justin Wastnage. Azran Osman-Rani, AirAsia X chief executive, said that New Zealand destinations had been “on the radar for some time”. The Malaysian carrier would be permitted to continue its services to the Gold Coast on to New Zealand points under the terms of the Australia-New Zealand air services agreement. Christchurch has been rumoured as a likely port (Travel Today, January 29)
Osman-Rani said the Air New Zealand-Virgin Blue deal, which is yet to clear regulatory hurdles, could lead to “fewer flights and higher fares, which would be perfect for a new entrant with lower fares to enter the market”. He added no further details during a speech via video link at the Tourism Futures Conference in Brisbane. Osman-Rani also said the carrier’s Jakarta-based subsidiary Indonesia AirAsia is considering adding flights to Darwin as part of its Australian expansion. The carrier already operates services to Perth. Osman-Rani said that while AirAsia X’s Airbus A340s would not be economical on services to the Northern Territory, the A320s used by Indonesia AirAsia could make the route profitable.

Yet another airline from OOL to NZ?

 

[markis10]

http://www.travelweekly.com.au/PDFRedirect.asp?date=7_07_2010

Yet another airline from OOL to NZ?

Gives them twice as many landings to stuff up at OOL