AirAsia and Expedia are partnering in a joint venture company covering Asia Pacific – the first of its kind globally between a low cost carrier and an online travel agent.
Under the agreement, a new company will operate Expedia’s branded businesses in Japan, India, Southeast Asia and other East Asian markets, as well as AirAsia’s AirAsiaGo and GoRooms businesses.
The venture will have the exclusive online third-party distribution rights in the region for AirAsia and AirAsiaX flights and travel packages, meaning that with few exceptions in the region the only place to find and book AirAsia flights online will be AirAsia.com, AirAsiaGo.com and Expedia.
In addition, AirAsia (AirAsia Malaysia, AirAsia Indonesia, AirAsia Thailand, AirAsiaX) and Expedia are partnering outside of the new venture to make Expedia the exclusive third party travel provider for AirAsia inventory allowing travellers to book AirAsia inventory on any of Expedia’s travel sites worldwide.
“We’ve taken our time to find a great partner that understands Asia and matches our drive, passion and aspiration,†said AirAsia group CEO, Tony Fernandes.
