AirAsia X and Jetstar go head-to-head with long-haul expansion plans

AirAsia X and Jetstar are looking to compete head-to-head in their low-cost long-haul expansion plans from the Asia Pacific region, with both carriers announcing plans to launch new routes. Over recent weeks, AirAsia X has been busy announcing new long-haul routes to Europe and the South Pacific, while Jetstar has been discussing plans to focus on expanding in Asia.

AirAsia X looks to publicly list to expand long-haul fleet

AirAsia X CEO Azran Osman-Rani stated in Dec-2010 that the carrier may sell shares in Europe and Asia as early as 2011 to fund its fleet expansion. According to Mr Osman-Rani, a larger fleet would allow it to expand its route network to under-served markets. The long-haul carrier plans to triple its fleet to 35 over the next six years as it adds more international destinations......