BRISBANE, 7 February 2019 – Thai AirAsia X opens itself up to a new continent by launching direct flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang)-Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, Australia.  As the first ever of its kind among Thai low-cost airline arena, the new flights will begin flying 4 times a week on 25 June 2019 at a special fare for AirAsia members starting from only THB 5,555* one way. Book today to 17 February 2019 for travel from 25 June 2019 - 26 October 2019 at airasia.com

Nadda Buranasiri, Group Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia X and CEO of Thai AirAsia X, said AirAsia has been serving flights to Australia for 12 years since AirAsia X Malaysia began flying to the Gold Coast, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, meaning the carrier is an expert in the market and knows its travellers’ behaviour. AirAsia as a brand is also well known in Australia and its recognition should serve as a strong foundation for Thai AirAsia X’s direct flight from Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok to Brisbane in Queensland.  The flight is a pioneering step for the low-cost aviation industry in Thailand and should boost tourism between both countries.

According to data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, up to 801,637 Australian travellers visited Thailand in 2018, spending a combined THB 64.79 billion in the country.  AirAsia believes its latest flight will increase these numbers and further stimulate Thailand’s tourism sector.

“AirAsia is always looking for new choices for our passengers and I am thankful to them for trusting us and helping us to fly even further.  We expect our direct flight to Brisbane to be of interest to both Thai and foreign travellers, especially with its low price, which is suited to those looking to expand their horizons. We remain committed to our belief that ‘Everyone can Fly Farther’ and want our passengers to reach places they have never been before while receiving quality service. We worked closely with Brisbane Airport, Queensland officials and the state’s tourism sector and received full support, so we are confident we will be able to offer the best to our customers”.

Thai AirAsia X’s world class safety standards played a key role in helping it receive permission to fly to Australia, which requires adherence to a variety of rules and regulations. Last year, Thai AirAsia X passed the International Air Transportation (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) and received validation from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) of Australia and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), affirming its international aviation standards.

The airline’s latest route benefits not just the tourism industry but the economy as a whole, creating connections for both the business and education sectors. With Thailand already well equipped in terms of services and hospitality, the connection is a boon to all involved sectors. Moreover, AirAsia’s expansive regional network will help disperse Australian tourists to the Thailand’s various provinces and throughout the Asean region, providing business opportunities to all.

Brisbane is the capital city of Queensland on the western shore of Australia and is the country’s third most populated city, serving as both the economic and educational center of Queensland. The relaxed atmosphere of the destination attracts many leisure seekers but it is also a great place to visit for outdoor activities from bicycle riding to boating. South Bank public park is one of Brisbane’s most popular locations and is where most people go to engage in water activities in the expansive lake. At the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, visitors are allowed to snap photos while holding one of Australia’s most recognizable animals. Moreover, Brisbane allows travellers to see even more of Queensland including the Moreton Island, a magical place where visitors can often get up close with dolphins and do snorkeling. North of Brisbane also locates Sunshine Coast which is popular for water sporting. The State of Queensland is also home to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef which houses rich marine ecological system.

Thai AirAsia X currently flies from Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport) to Seoul of South Korea, Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo and Nagoya of Japan and Shanghai of China. In 2019, the airline plans to acquire even more Airbus A330neo airplanes in support of its growing network.

The latest route from Thai AirAsia X is being introduced with a promotional fare starting from only THB 5,555* available for booking 7 February 2019 - 17 February 2019 for travel from 25 June 2019 - 26 October 2019 at www.ariasia.com and all other ticketing channels. For more information on promotions and activities visit AirAsia’s Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsia) and Twitter (twitter.com/AirAsia).

*Fares are one way and are inclusive of airport duties but exclude auxiliary service fees and credit card, debit card or charge card processing fees.  Airline’s terms and conditions apply.