AirAsia X pens Flight Centre partnership

AirAsia X has signed a major new agreement with the Flight Centre Travel Group (FLT), to strengthen its presence in Australia.

The deal, which is the first of its kind for the low-cost carrier in Australia, will see Flight Centre promote the airline’s fares and “create new and unique offerings” for the Australian outbound travel market.

“AirAsia X sees solid growth opportunities in Australia and is focused on reinforcing the benefits of the strength of our network across Asia,” said Benyamin Ismail, acting CEO of AirAsia X.

“By working more closely with FLT we can highlight our offerings to the company’s extensive customer database and proactively promote to travellers across all of the company’s brands and sales channels, particularly its 1,000 retail travel shops.

“This brand diversity is important because the traditional low-cost carrier model is evolving and gaining popularity among a broader customer base. While budget-conscious travellers often look to LCCs, we are also seeing increased interest from other demographics, including those who are looking to save on the flight component of their holidays and spend more on accommodation,” he added.

Flight Centre Australia’s executive general manager, Melanie Waters Ryan, commented; “AirAsia Group has a strong network and its key destinations – including Bali, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur and Krabi – are among the most popular holiday destinations for FLT’s customers and Australian travellers in general.

“We look forward to working more closely with the AirAsia team and believe this relationship will deliver tangible benefits to both companies and to the travelling public in general.”

The agreement will see FLT gain access to AirAsia’s full product range via the GDS.

sourced:traveldailymedia.com