AirAsia X receives clearance from FAA to fly to any destination in the US

AirAsia X had received clearance from the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) to fly to any destination in the US, as it makes its foray into an entirely new market looking beyond the Asia Pacific.

According to AirAsia X, it was the first Asian low-cost carrier to secure approval to operate scheduled passenger flights to the US.

AirAsia X was considering flights to a number of US states including Hawaii as part of its route expansion plans.

AirAsia X CEO Datuk Kamarudin Meranun said this was a major milestone for AirAsia X.

''Our expansion up until now has concentrated on Asia, Australasia and the Middle East, and we are excited about our first foray into an entirely new market as we look beyond Asia Pacific.

''I'm confident travellers will respond well to our award-winning service and the kind of connectivity we can offer with our Fly-Thru product. As part of our expansion plans, we are also looking to resume our very popular London route, and are working towards securing the necessary approvals.''

According to Kamaruddin, none of this would be possible without its Allstars, especially group chief operating officer Anaz Ahmad Tajuddin who passed away two weeks ago.

 ''We wouldn't be where we are today if he had not laid the foundations with his blood, sweat and tears, and his bravery in the face of cancer showed us the true meaning of strength. This is for you, Anaz.''

As a sister airline to low-cost giant AirAsia, AirAsia X delivers promises affordable long-haul international flights with its fleet of Airbus A330 aircraft. Both brands are part of Malaysian entrepreneur, Tony Fernandes' Tune Group.

"AirAsia X is currently considering flights to several US states including Hawaii as part of its route expansion plans," the airline said in a statement. However, AirAsia X had not yet made detailed plans as to when it would arrive in the US and which markets it would enter first.