In another blow to the recovery hopes of earthquake-devastated Christchurch, AirAsia X has dumped flights to New Zealand’s South Island city.
TravelMole flagged the move last week.
The long-haul, low-cost airline blamed the move on high fuel costs and the realignment of its network to focus on its core markets.
The current four times weekly flights between Kuala Lumpur and Christchurch will be suspended with the last flight on May 30 (from Kuala Lumpur) and May 31 (from Christchurch).
Christchurch International Airport chief executive Jim Boult said he was “bitterly disappointed” at AirAsia X’s decision to pull out of Christchurch, but understood the airline’s position.
He told the The Press in Christchurch, “I feel greatly for the tourism industry in the South Island. Many operators have told us how much the AAX service has delivered in direct new business, so this loss will be felt through the entire industry.”
Azran Osman-Rani, CEO of AirAsia X, said the Christchurch route has performed strongly in terms of demand since its launch in April 2011, recording close to 80% loads.
“However, the route has been impacted by the spiraling cost of jet fuel. The high cost of fuel has compromised our ability to offer our renowned low fares.”
