AirAsia will be adding a second frequency to its direct flight to Shenzhen (China) from the Low Cost Carrier Terminal in Kuala Lumpur from 2 October 2007. The service which commenced less than two months ago on 15 July 2007, has recorded extremely high loads of over 90%, prompting the airline to add another brand new Airbus A320 flight.

At the same time, AirAsia will also be enhancing its connectivity in the region by launching direct flight from Kota Kinabalu into Shenzhen. Guests from East Malaysia will now have the chance to fly out from Kota Kinabalu’s new Low Cost Carrier Terminal to Shenzhen which is also located a stone throw’s away from Hong Kong.

Currently, AirAsia’s sister airline, Thai AirAsia is also serving a daily flight from Bangkok. With the added second frequency and a new flight from Kota Kinabalu, AirAsia will be serving four flights daily into Shenzhen.

Kathleen Tan, Regional Head of Commercial, AirAsia, said, “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. 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.”

On starting the Kota Kinabalu-Shenzhen route, Kathleen added, “Kota Kinabalu with so much to offer, is rated as a popular destination by mainland Chinese now. With an insatiable appetite for overseas travel, 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.”

Shenzhen which is located in the southern part of Guangdong province, is one of the fastest growing cities in China. It is infamous for its coastal views, theme parks, historical attractions, and world-class golf courses as well as a well-known shopper’s paradise destination. Boasting an endless list of attractions, Malaysians and Thais ranked 5th and 6th in terms of the top visitor arrivals in year 2006.
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