Air Asia and Airbus have been fighting for the future of existing orders since the beginning of the corona pandemic. An initial agreement has now been reached, because the Kuala Lumpur group will not accept the 13 Airbus A320s that are still outstanding, but will instead receive the A321neo.

As a result, Air Asia expects to deliver 2035 machines of this type by 362. The machines are to be divided among the subsidiaries according to requirements. In general, they want to convert the A320 fleet to the A321neo.

“We have always worked closely with Airbus and look forward to a complete changeover of the A321neo fleet, which will further consolidate our lowest cost base and lean cost structure. The A321neo will revolutionize the flight experience for our guests as we accelerate our business to meet a post-COVID-19 air traffic resurgence, "said Air Asia President Bo Lingam.

Airbus Chief Commercial Officer Christian Scherer confirmed that a solution for the bulk order could be achieved with Air Asia. “It is yet another endorsement of the A321neo as the most efficient and popular single aisle aircraft in the world. It's also an example of how we've worked with our customers at Airbus to find solutions to adapt to the effects of the pandemic, ”said the manager.

At times, the large order of the group was on the brink, because for financial reasons it stopped the installment payments that have to be made depending on the progress of construction. Not only did this lead to discrepancies, but Airbus took some aircraft destined for Air Asia off the production line.

Air Asia introduces mandatory vaccination for passengers

The company from Malaysia sees itself well prepared for the future and expects high demand. It is also pointed out that the vaccination rate in Asia, including Malaysia, is increasing significantly. However, in the future you will no longer be able to fly with Air Asia without proof of full vaccination.

The carrier announced on Thursday that only fully vaccinated people will be transported and that with immediate effect. The decision is based, among other things, on the fact that one feels better equipped for the comeback in domestic traffic, but also internationally. It is also believed that full vaccination against Covid-19 will become a basic requirement for travel and will gradually prevail.