AirAsia X has confirmed that the Gold Coast in Australia will be its first long haul international destination.The airline will commence four direct return flights per week between Gold Coast Airport and Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT), Kuala Lumpur beginning 2 November 2007.

AirAsia X is the extension of AirAsia’s successful short haul low cost model. The airline’s inaugural flight will carry a total of 315 guests, consisting of 279 economy seats and 36 premium XL seats, serviced by the airline’s Airbus A330-300 aircraft which arrived earlier this month in LCCT.

Azran Osman-Rani, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia X, said, “Gold Coast is an ideal and exciting choice as X’s first destination as it is a popular destination amongst Asians with first class offerings of theme parks, spectacular beaches, abundance of shopping opportunities that will cater to families and young adults. Gold Coast will definitely be a hit with Malaysian travelers. We are keen to position Gold Coast as the gateway to Australia as the airport also offers strong domestic connections for low cost travel to Sydney and Melbourne.”

“AirAsia has successfully pioneered the low cost concept in South East Asia five years ago and today has carried over 40 million guests. It is evident low fares have opened up a huge market and enabled many millions with dreams to fly. We are now extending this successful model and concept to long haul with the birth of AirAsia X and we believe Gold Coast is the start of X’s exciting journey to building a strong long haul network. We believe this endeavour will be another outstanding achievement for Malaysia in establishing its homegrown low coast carrier internationally,” added Azran.
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