MAS restructuring will resolve cross-over issue — AirAsia group CEO

The restructuring of Malaysia Airlines ( MAS) will help resolve cross- over issues between AirAsia, AirAsia X and Malaysia Airlines.

It will enable both airlines to compete to operate in their respective segments — AirAsia and AirAsia X in the lowcost segment and MAS in the premium-cost segment.

AirAsia Bhd Group chief executive officer Tan Sri Tony Fernandes said this would benefit the country’s aviation industry as there there would be two strong airlines.

“There are obviously some cross over but too much cross- over (as is the case now) leads to inefficiency (in the industry),” he told reporters on the sidelines of a customer loyalty programme signing ceremony between AirAsia and Petronas Dagangan Bhd yesterday.

He added with the restructuring plan, MAS, AirAsia and AirAsia X would be able to focus on their strengths as a premium and low- cost carrier.

“The restructuring plan is expected to create a very healthy aviation industry and less taxpayers’ money are required to support elements of the aviation industry.

“( So that), it can stand on its own feet and the money can go into more productive areas, said Fernandes, adding that the national carrier had fantastic products and crew.

The low- cost carrier also welcomed the plan by Khazanah Nasional Bhd, the government investment arm, to privatise the national carrier.

“I think from what we are reading, Khazanah really wants MAS to be run commercially. It (the restructing) will benefit the economy,” Fernandes said.— Bernama