After the successful launch of the first direct international flight between Bhubaneswar and Kuala Lumpur, AirAsia on Thursday announced its decision to start daily flights between the two destinations soon. The Malaysia-based low-cost airline will also start flights to enhance domestic connectivity between Bhubaneswar and other Indian cities, said CEO of the airline Aireen Omar.
“We are really overwhelmed with the response we got for operations in this latest direct route between Bhubaneswar and Kuala Lumpur. If the response will continue then we may soon enhance the frequency from four times a week to daily,” Omar told mediapersons here. The direct flight will facilitate business and leisure trips not only to Malaysia but also seamlessly connect Odisha with 21 destinations in Asia and over 120 destinations in 24 countries across South East Asia.
“As a group, India is an important market for us and with the launch of this new route, we show our commitment towards enhancing our connectivity in the country. AirAsia India will soon start domestic flights,” she said. The airline has also plans to start operation between Bhubaneswar and Bangkok soon, official sources said.
“Passengers have booked tickets from countries like Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia and New Zealand. In view of the trend we may start direct flights to more destinations from Bhubaneswar,” she said.
Describing the tie-up with Odisha government as the beginning of a strategic partnership, she said Odisha has much to offer as a tourist destination. “Our aim is to showcase the unique state to the world and we are committed to build Odisha as a top holiday destination.” Earlier in the day, a team of delegates, including Malaysia high commissioner Dato Hidayat Abdul Hamid, senior director, tourism Malaysia, Datuk Zainuddin called on chief minister Naveen Patnaik.