Stansted Airport Chamber of Commerce

Stansted welcomes new Asia link and First low-cost connection to Australia

A330-300 AirAsia X-low

Stansted Airport is today celebrating its selection by AirAsia X as the UK gateway from which the airline will launch the first low-cost, non-stop flights between London and Kuala Lumpur next year. The new service also revolutionises long-haul travel from the UK, offering the first low-cost air link to Australia from the UK too.

"This is not only exciting news for Stansted but a significant milestone for low-cost, long-haul air travel around the world," said Stansted’s commercial and development director Nick Barton, who recently finalised discussions with AirAsia X.

"Stansted is firmly established as the major hub for short-haul European travel, so we’re delighted AirAsia X recognises the growth potential here and selected Stansted as the UK gateway from which they will launch this very exciting long-haul link.

"The new non-stop service from London to Kuala Lumpur, with low-cost connections across Asia and to Australia, is certain to be extremely popular with business and leisure passengers seeking affordable long-haul travel options, and we're looking forward to supporting AirAsia X as they develop their services here at Stansted."

Details of the new low-cost link to Asia and Australia were unveiled at an exclusive press briefing held by AirAsia X at London’s County Hall earlier today. Speaking about the airlines decision to tap into the lucrative UK air travel market was Air Asia’s CEO Tony Fernandes who said:

"AirAsia’s London to Kuala Lumpur route is the realisation of a long-held ambition to open up affordable access between Malaysia and Europe for both ASEAN and European communities. We have an incredible route network and at £99 each way the opportunity for Londoners and Europeans to explore ASEAN has never been greater."

Azran Osman Rani, CEO for AirAsia X said:

"The London route is a significant achievement for us, allowing those who have always wanted to travel between Europe and ASEAN to achieve their dream, at an affordable price. We are looking to expand from five flights per week to a daily service in the near future."

For further information on the new AirAsia X services to be launched from

Stansted on 11 March 2009 visit www.airasia.com.