AirAsia is exploring multiple aircraft options as part of its long-term fleet expansion strategy, with models such as the China made COMAC C919 and the Brazil made Embraer E2 series under active consideration.
This was revealed by Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, during the Q&A session following the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) signing between Penang Centre of Medical Tourism (PMED) and AirAsia yesterday. .
“We are open to evaluating all viable aircraft types that can serve our operational needs, whether it’s the C919 from COMAC or regional jets like the Embraer E2 series,” said Dato’ Captain Fareh to Penang Hyperlocal.
“Any aircraft we decide on will not replace our existing fleet, but rather complement it, enhancing our network flexibility and allowing us to better serve regional markets.”
He emphasized that such decisions would take into account operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, fuel economy, and route compatibility. The CEO noted that AirAsia’s fleet currently consists primarily of Airbus A320 and A321neo aircraft, which have served as the backbone of the airline’s low-cost model across Asia.
“Diversifying our fleet—if and when it makes sense—would give us more agility in opening up secondary routes or strengthening connectivity to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, especially across ASEAN and beyond,” he added.
Dato’ Captain Fareh also underscored the strategic importance of Penang International Airport as a key hub in AirAsia’s network.
“Penang International Airport is not only crucial to our operations in the Northern Region but also plays a vital role in supporting tourism, trade, and now, medical travel. As we continue to expand our routes and services, Penang will remain a central part of our hub strategy.”
He reiterated AirAsia’s commitment to supporting Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026, noting that improving air access and connectivity to Penang is a cornerstone of their contribution to national tourism and healthcare goals.
Also present at the signing ceremony was Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang Global Tourism CEO, Ooi Chok Yan, Mdm Ding Qiao, Vice-Consul General of China, Ibu Yomi A. Lestari, Economic Consul of the Consulate General of Indonesia in Penang, Dr. Annuar Bin Mohamed, Director, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) Penang, Puan Zuraidah Abu Bakar, Deputy Director, Tourism Malaysia Northern Region, Dr. Mary Ann Harris, Executive Director, PMED, Kenneth Tan, Government Relations Manager, AirAsia Berhad and representatives from member medical institutions.
