The Australian Aviation Awards celebrate excellence in the aviation sector through a rigorous and comprehensive judging process that combines both quantitative and qualitative criteria. Categories are assessed based on growth, business development, diversity, leadership, innovation, business excellence, and contributions to Australia's aviation industry.
AirAsia X (AAX) is a medium-haul airline operating under the AirAsia brand, alongside six other airlines. AAX flies from Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth to Kuala Lumpur using its widebody A330 aircraft, which features three key zones: Premium Flatbeds, an exclusive Quiet Zone, and Economy. Currently, AAX serves 23 destinations, including popular spots for Australians like India, Japan, South Korea, and China. Recently, the airline added Almaty in Kazakhstan and Nairobi, starting this November, to its network, providing more options and value for travelers. Additionally, AAX connects Australians to six other AirAsia-branded airlines, three of which also fly to Australia from Cairns and Perth, offering access to over 130 destinations across Asia and beyond.
AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail expressed his gratitude upon receiving the accolade, saying, "Australia holds a special place in our hearts as the very first destination we flew to when operations first launched in November 2007. It remains one of our core markets, and I am truly thrilled and honoured to receive this prestigious accolade. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the AAX team, who have worked tirelessly to bring us out of the most challenging times in aviation history, and I dedicate this award to them. Together, we have emerged stronger than ever and remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the safest, most affordable, and reliable air travel experience for our guests, with an exceptional inflight experience. We are continuously enhancing our products and services, and we have exciting plans for significant growth in the near future. Our ambition is to cover the majority of continents, ensuring that Australians have even more value and choice when it comes to their travel options. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the Australian Aviation and Momentum Media events teams and the judges for this incredible honour. This recognition inspires us to continue striving for even greater excellence in everything we do."
Australian Aviation Editor Adam Thorn commented, “Huge congratulations to AirAsia X, who won International Airline of the Year at our Australian Aviation Awards. The judges were hugely impressed not only by its passenger performance but also by its technological innovations and commitment to sustainability.”
AirAsia Group flies up to 100 million guests annually, with AAX alone carrying over six million passengers per year in 2019. The airline's strategic focus remains on expanding routes that connect Australians to both popular destinations and hidden gems across Asia and beyond.
The Australian Aviation Awards highlight outstanding individuals and businesses that positively influence the growth and development of Australia’s aviation industry. Now in its third year, the annual event is poised to become a universal benchmark for aviation excellence across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. For full details on the methodology, judging process, and category descriptions, please refer to the Australian Aviation Awards methodology.
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