AirAsia is expanding its service to Shenzhen, China with the addition of two flights from Malaysia on October 2nd. The low-cost carrier will add a second flight from Kuala Lumpur and start a direct flight from Kota Kinabalu in East Malaysia. Both flights will operate from the Low Cost Carrier Terminal in each or the Malaysian airports. Air Asia Thailand also serves Shenzhen with a daily flight from Bangkok.
AirAsia launched the route between Kuala Lumpur and Shenzhen on July 15th this year, and is adding the second flight in response to load factors of over 90%.
“Since the launch on 15 July 2007, the performance of this route exceeds our expectations. In both of the months, July and August, we delivered 98% and 95% loads respectively. To cope with increasing demand for Shenzhen, we are adding the 2nd frequency in time for China’s Golden Week holidays,” said Kathleen Tan, Regional Head of Commercial, AirAsia.
Ms. Tan continued, “We are delighted with this route’s performance, which is a strong indication that many are visiting Shenzhen to connect to Pearl Delta region. And on the other hand, our low fares are a key stimulant for the mainland Chinese to visit Malaysia.”
“Kota Kinabalu is now climbing the charts as one of the top destinations to visit in Malaysia, with beaches and the appeal of eco-tourism as well as many five star resort hotels to choose from,” she added.
Shenzhen is situated in the Pearl River Delta in southern Guangdong province, close to Hong Kong. Malaysians and Thais were the fifth and sixth most frequent visitors during 2006.
