Despite mounting pressure across the aviation industry, AirAsia X has firmly assured that it is not implementing job cuts or offering voluntary unpaid leave as a measure to handle rising costs tied to the West Asia conflict.
Group Chief Executive Officer Bo Lingam reaffirmed the airline's commitment to protecting its workforce amid ongoing industry challenges, stating clearly that there are currently no staff reductions or unpaid leave arrangements in place.
On the financial side, jet fuel prices have surged from around US$90 per barrel before the Middle East conflict to approximately US$200 per barrel, prompting AirAsia X to raise overall fares by 30 to 40 percent and introduce a 20 percent fuel surcharge to offset the impact. Bo Lingam noted that any fare increases would be implemented carefully to balance affordability and cost recovery.
AirAsia X co-founder and advisor Tan Sri Tony Fernandes highlighted that the airline is accelerating operational improvements, strengthening its cargo segment through logistics arm Teleport, and leveraging digital platforms to drive demand, drawing on lessons from navigating past crises including the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the turbulence, AirAsia X reaffirmed its plans to launch flights to Bahrain in June, subject to geopolitical developments, while routes including Busan are also proceeding as scheduled. Bo Lingam confirmed that the airline's four expected aircraft deliveries this year remain unchanged, signaling confidence in long-term recovery.
