FAX to Firefly: See you later. We’re off to China
KUALA LUMPUR: How time flies – especially when you’re a budget airline called Firefly and you find yourself in the middle of merry-go-round in Malaysia.
Firefly, which is owned by Malaysia Airlines, will take back rural air services in Sabah and Sarawak that were surrendered by MAS to Fly Asian Xpress (FAX) because they were under-performing and non viable.
Fast forward to last week when FAX announced a deal that would see it partner Air Asia in long haul operations, in opposition to the national carrier, MAS, on some routes.
MAS, through Firefly, will resume loss-making rural services underwritten by the Malaysian government,
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy said the Cabinet had agreed “that the provision of such services is the Government’s responsibility and a type of social service so we will continue subsidising the cost of running these operations, which amount to RM60 million per year, to maintain the low-fare structure”.
It has been less than a year since MAS handed over the rural air services to Air Asia, which then subcontracted them to FAX.
Fernandes said FAX would be launching AirAsia long haul operations to China, Australia and UK later this year, and that it would be too distracting to operate turbo-propeller aircraft as well.
Launching Air Asia long haul operations last week, Fernandes said he had considered names for the new operation – “including names of insects” – but concluded that the Air Asia brand was too strong to ignore.
According to Bernama news agency, Sarawak Tourism Board chief executive officer Gracie Geikie said Firefly would be a big help towards reinstating tourism destinations in the state’s rural areas on the global map.
“As it is 100% owned by MAS, Firefly is in the best position to take over the service,” she said.
She said tourism players in the state went through an “expensive experience” after FAX took over the service.
Sabah tourism minister Datuk Karim Bujang said the step would greatly benefit the people living in rural areas and also help to boost tourism.
Ian Jarrett
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