AirAsia has confirmed its intention to develop a new hub in Lombok, Indonesia, as the quake-hit destination works to get back on it feet.
AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes said: “AirAsia will accelerate post-earthquake recovery efforts to support the communities of West Nusa Tenggara and the people of Lombok. The past year has been a very sad and challenging time for the people of Lombok, including the local tourism industry which has suffered as a result of the recent earthquakes.
“In the next few months, we will be working with airports and government authorities to turn Lombok into our newest hub in Indonesia.”
AirAsia’s Indonesian affiliate expects it will base two Airbus A320 aircraft in Lombok, with plans to double existing frequency to Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, as well as services to Perth, Yogyakarta and Bali.
AirAsia Indonesia CEO Dendy Kurniawan said: “AirAsia is ready to tell the world that Lombok is open for business.
“Lombok has so much potential. We know that when we combine our resources and work with the tourism industry on marketing and public relations initiatives, we’re able to expand the market and drive greater demand for destination Lombok.”
AirAsia commenced international services from Kuala Lumpur to Lombok in October 2012, and currently operates seven return flights per week between Lombok and Malaysia’s capital.
