AirAsia X Bhd experienced significant growth in the second quarter of 2024, carrying 880,265 passengers, marking a substantial 42% year-on-year increase.

This growth outpaced the 25% year-on-year expansion in its available seat per kilometre (ASK) capacity, reaching 4.39 billion ASK this quarter compared to 3.50 billion ASK in the same period last year.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the airline attributed this surge to its efforts over the past year to reactivate aircraft and expand its network in response to increasing demand. AirAsia X reported a robust passenger load factor (PLF) of 83%, up by seven percentage points year-on-year, bolstered by strong travel seasons in key markets and the Eid holiday period.

During the quarter, AirAsia X resumed operations to Xi'an, China in April, enhancing its presence in this strategic market alongside other key destinations like Beijing, Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Shanghai. Responding to high demand, the airline also increased flight frequencies between Kuala Lumpur and Bali from nine to 14 times per week.

Meanwhile, AirAsia X Thailand, an associate company, maintained a solid PLF of 84% in 2Q2024, reflecting a six-percentage-point increase year-on-year. The subsidiary expanded its flight offerings with a 7% year-on-year rise in the number of sectors flown, totaling 1,156 flights during the period.

As of June 30, 2024, AirAsia X's fleet comprised 18 A330s, with 16 aircraft operational. AirAsia X Thailand operated seven A330s, with six in active service.