AirAsia X first to reconnect direct flights to Busan next year

 

KUALA LUMPUR: AirAsia X (AAX) is set to be the first airline from Malaysia to reconnect direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Busan, South Korea, in early 2023.

The airline said the thrice-weekly flights would be the second AAX route to South Korea after launching flights to Seoul in April this year.

In addition to relaunching the route, AAX signed a memorandum of understanding with the Busan Tourism Organisation (BTO) to develop joint sales and marketing campaigns, leverage travel agents' support, strengthen flight connectivity, and foster both countries' economies through tourism.

AirAsia X chief executive officer Benyamin Ismail said South Korea is a crucial market, and the airline has seen tremendous growth from its existing route to Seoul with an 80 per cent average load factor.

"Starting with three weekly services and based on strong forecast demand, we expect the flight frequency to Busan to return to daily services by year-end.

"We believe the relaunch of the Busan route will provide a significant boost to strengthening business and tourism ties between Malaysia and South Korea, and we wish to thank the governments and relevant authorities for their tremendous support," he said.

He said the airline flew about 200,000 guests to and from Busan in 2019.

"As we look to increase the connectivity to South Korea further, we trust that our direct flights to Busan will provide a welcome boost for tourism and the economy in both countries.

"The new route also reflects our commitment to continue offering our guests great value mid-range air travel, and we look forward to seeing a surge in tourist arrivals into/from Busan in the near future," said Benyamin.

BTO president Jung-Sil Lee said the relaunch of AAX direct flights to Busan would mark a major milestone in resuming services to the city.

"We believe travellers will appreciate the direct and affordable connection, making Busan a top holiday destination once again," he said.

-nst online.