Airlines

AirAsia Philippines part of major 30-route expansion by AirAsia Group in 2025

Local carrier to increase Taipei flights as part of group's regional growth strategy

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AirAsia Aviation Group has unveiled significant expansion plans for 2025, announcing the launch of over 30 new routes. The Philippines is highlighted as a key market benefiting from this growth, aimed at strengthening regional and domestic connectivity across ASEAN as the group targets a strong recovery.

This year’s strategy focuses on optimizing the group’s network by increasing frequencies on high-demand routes across its core markets, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Key growth areas targeted include India, China, and destinations throughout ASEAN.

Specifically for the local market, AirAsia Philippines confirmed it will increase its Manila-Taipei service frequency. Starting July 2025, flights will operate 17 times weekly, up from the current 14, enhancing connectivity between the two vibrant cities.

“We look forward to supporting AirAsia Aviation Group’s strategy to enhance connectivity for both domestic and international services focused on flying the most profitable and popular routes. The Philippines offers immense potential, especially in terms of global tourism with strong forecast demand,” shared AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla.

“Increasing our Taipei flight frequencies is part of our forward strategy and brand promise in democratizing air travel while providing purposeful journeys that will endear travelers to explore their dream destinations.”

This network growth is supported by fleet enhancements, with the group aiming to restore full pre-pandemic capacity. By the end of 2025, the group expects to operate 234 narrowbody aircraft, reactivating the remaining 16 parked aircraft and accepting 14 new deliveries (four from Airbus, ten via lessors).

The airline previously said it will expand its fleet within the year, when it expects to receive 3-4 Airbus A320neo family aircraft. Widebody operations are also being eyed in the near future.

“In 2025, as we return to full capacity, we’ll be balancing sustainable growth with profitability,” stated Bo Lingam, Group CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group. He also noted the growing importance of Fly-Thru traffic, targeting over seven million connecting passengers this year, representing about 10% of total traffic.

“Our network strategy will prioritise strategic, demand-driven connectivity across Asia. With over 30 new routes and increased frequencies on our most popular services, we are responding directly to market demand and Fly-Thru connecting opportunities,” he added.

These expansion efforts are taking place ahead of the proposed consolidation of AirAsia and AirAsia X under AirAsia X Berhad. This move aims to create a more robust aviation group combining short- and medium-haul operations.

Written by
Dirk Andrei Salcedo

Dirk is the founder and editor-in-chief of Aviation Updates Philippines (AUP), a platform dedicated to providing the latest news and insights on the aviation industry in the Philippines. With a strong passion for aviation and a background in computer engineering, he manages all aspects of AUP, from website development to content curation.

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