Online travel giant Trip.com Group has inked a partnership with budget airline AirAsia to get people travelling again across Asia.
The tie-up will give Trip.com Group’s premium members upgraded perks on AirAsia flights when booking tickets through Trip.com websites or apps.
The collaboration wants to be ready when borders open between China and AirAsia’s home region of Southeast Asia.
They hope to spur more demand for international travel when allowed to do so.
Pre-pandemic, AirAsia flew to 21 destinations in China.
AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes says China passengers make up about 10% of its Southeast Asia-bound traffic.
"This partnership with Trip.com Group demonstrates confidence in the China market, more so during this challenging Covid-19 environment, where we remain optimistic for borders to be reopened in the near future."
The two companies will jointly offer end-to-end product offerings, including flights, hotels, airport transfers, and tours and activities.
By Ray Montgomery, Asia Pacific Editor
