AirAsia Japan will be the first low-cost carrier to be based at Narita International Airport, and is expected to serve both domestic and international destinations when it commences operations in August 2012, subject to obtaining the relevant approvals.
In Japan, the aviation market is undergoing rapid transformation with developments including the expansion of Open Skies agreements and increased domestic competition from road and rail-based travel. In addition, Narita airport, a major international hub serving Tokyo, is seeking to increase capacity with the introduction of a new terminal and is expected to attract many low-cost carriers and foreign airlines.
ANA has been seeking opportunities to launch a new low-cost business based at Narita and, after analysis, has concluded that partnering with an existing low-cost carrier is the most efficient and strategically advantageous option.
Having already established an unmatched network, especially within the ASEAN region, AirAsia has been seeking a business partner with strong Japanese market influence to further expand its scope, as well as contribute to strengthening bilateral ties between ASEAN and Japan.
The formation of AirAsia Japan leverages on AirAsia’s successful business model and brings together the complementary strengths of the two companies, generating new demand with the aim of making affordable and quality travel available to all.
Mr. Shinichiro Ito, President and CEO of ANA says, “We believe AirAsia Japan represents a pioneering new airline for the region, benefitting from economies of scale provided by AirAsia’s vast network and enabling flexibility to meet various customer needs. AirAsia Japan can provide more services, routes and destinations across the world to attract many passengers. In Japan, people are increasingly looking for affordable and efficient travel options. This joint venture rationalizes the service offering and allows passengers to customize their travel experience.”
Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes, Group CEO of AirAsia says, “We are proud to extend AirAsia’s successful low-cost business model to Japan and further provide opportunities for everyone to fly to the destinations of their dreams, with low fares and seamless connectivity. AirAsia Japan will not only boost economic growth between ASEAN and East Asia by providing better access to markets around the region, but also enhance links within travel, trade and tourism. AirAsia is proud to be identified as a low cost carrier partner to ANA, a very respected, credible and successful airline in Japan. This new joint venture is an important milestone in AirAsia’s growth as ANA is the very first airline partner to form a joint venture with AirAsia.”
New Company Outline
Company name: AirAsia Japan
Capital: ANA 67%, AirAsia 33% (Voting-right share basis)
*ANA 51%, AirAsia 49% (Capital basis)
Base: Narita International Airport
Schedule
Aug.-Sept. 2001: Establish company
Sept.-Oct. 2011: Apply for Air Operators' Certificate (AOC)
Aug. 2012: First flight
For more info, please contact:
ANA PR:
Ryosei Nomura and Megumi Tezuka
Tel : +81-3-6735-1111
Email : [email protected]
AirAsia Communications:
Daphne Cheah
Office No. : +603 8660 4541
Email : [email protected]