AirAsia Aviation Group (AirAsia/the Group) is ramping up its aggressive expansion strategy with the confirmation of 14 new aircraft deliveries in 2025 - four directly from aircraft manufacturer Airbus and 10 from lessors. This strategic fleet growth is set to support surging travel demand across Asean and beyond, reinforcing AirAsia’s position as the leading low-cost carrier.

Asia Pacific passenger numbers are set to grow by 7.9% in 2025 - the fastest globally - driven by economic recovery, competitive fares, and government-led tourism campaigns, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Reflecting this momentum, AirAsia’s internal guidance targets 70 million passengers for FY2025, representing an 11% year-on-year increase. To achieve this, the Group is expanding capacity, enhancing connectivity, and optimising its network for greater efficiency. With a sharp focus on operational excellence and cost leadership, AirAsia’s immediate priorities are to strengthen its domestic market share and improve Fly-Thru connectivity across all operating markets, while in the medium term, it will explore expanding into key global destinations to bring new destinations to guests.

AirAsia’s Asean market leadership positions the airline as a key connector to major international markets, enabling seamless access to destinations across Asia-Pacific, Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. The airline’s expansive short-haul network, anchored by its mega hubs in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, and its hubs across Indonesia, the Philippines and Cambodia enhances regional connectivity while serving as a springboard for long-haul expansion.

Bo Lingam, Group CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group, reaffirmed the airline’s confidence in its trajectory, stating: “We’ve had a great start to 2025, and we are excited as AirAsia’s future growth is fully secured, with the next 56 aircraft already financed. This gives us an unmatched runway for expansion, allowing us to scale with absolute certainty whilst delivering the most affordable and reliable travel experience. This is more than about expanding our fleet - it’s about putting more flights where our guests need them most, opening up new destinations, and making travel even more seamless and affordable. Every aircraft we deploy is a step toward giving our guests more choices, better connections, and the best value in the skies.

“We are accelerating towards pre-pandemic growth rates faster than anticipated, and this expansion is a testament to our confidence in the market’s strength. Demand is up, load factors and yields remain strong, and we are laser-focused on route optimisations with a disciplined focus on cost efficiency. This positions AirAsia steadily to seize future growth opportunities and with the latest aircraft technology, we are future-proofing our operations for the next decade, setting the foundation for long-term, sustainable growth.”

With the impending aviation corporate exercise, AirAsia is poised to consolidate its network by integrating the efficiency of its short haul routes with the reach of its long haul operations. Additionally, the Airbus A321XLR and A321LR will be game-changing in resetting low-cost regional and long-haul connectivity, while the Airbus A330 fleet will be optimised for long-haul routes, supporting AirAsia’s push into new intercontinental markets. This strategically planned fleet expansion will allow the airline to reduce costs while improving fuel efficiency, ensuring a sustainable and cost-effective growth model.

As one of the fastest-recovering airlines globally, AirAsia is on track to match and exceed its pre-pandemic growth trajectory. The confirmed aircraft deliveries will support high-demand routes, facilitate new market entries, and boost overall operational capacity, reinforcing AirAsia’s role as the leading low-cost carrier in the region. With strong market demand and a commitment to affordability, AirAsia continues to drive the future of low-cost travel while cementing its status as a global aviation powerhouse.