ANTHONY Loke had pledged in the run-up to the recent general election that he would ensure airlines offered cheaper fares if he was made the transport minister again.

Now being appointed to helm the same ministry under the unity government, Loke today launched AirAsia’s new fixed-fare flights from Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru to several locations in Sabah and Sarawak.

Flights to Kuching, Bintulu, Miri and Sibu will cost RM199 while those to Kota Kinabalu and Tawau are priced at RM249.

These are valid for selected flights only and from January 17-30.

“We are pleased that AirAsia is committed to supporting the government’s initiative to bring down fares during the important festive season, despite its operational constraints,” Loke said.

“While it is unable to increase flight frequencies due to the shortage of aircraft, which is affecting all airlines, we applaud its hard work to add special flights at fixed low fares to reconnect families, especially those travelling to and from Sabah and Sarawak.”

He also encouraged other carriers to introduce similar initiatives during festive seasons.

In recent years, travellers, especially those wanting to return to their hometowns in Sabah and Sarawak, had complained of expensive ticket prices.

AirAsia Aviation Group Ltd group chief executive officer Bo Lingam said the airline is committed to reuniting Malaysians for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration.

This despite it facing financial and operational constraints, he said.

“Today, we are pleased to be able to introduce special extra late-night flights at fixed low fares with a total of 25,020 seats to selected cities in Sabah and Sarawak for the upcoming festive period,” he said.

“This would not have been possible without the shared dedication from our Allstars, who will be working around the clock to serve our guests during this busy period, as well as the government for its assistance in securing approvals for the additional flights.” – December 28, 2022.