AirAsia wants to establish a hub in Indonesia in Lombok

AirAsia has confirmed its intention to develop a new hub in Lombok, Indonesia, as the stricken destination seeks to get back on its feet.

AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes said: "AirAsia will accelerate its post-earthquake recovery efforts to support West Nusa Tenggara communities and the people of Lombok. The past year has been a very sad and difficult time for the people of Lombok, including the local tourism industry, who have suffered from recent earthquakes.

"In the coming months, we will work with airports and government authorities to make Lombok our newest hub in Indonesia."

AirAsia's Indonesian subsidiary is expecting to establish two Airbus A320 aircraft in Lombok, with the intention of doubling the existing frequency to Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, as well as services to Perth, Yogyakarta and Bali.

Dendy Kurniawan, CEO of AirAsia Indonesia, said: "AirAsia is ready to tell the world that Lombok is open for business.

"Lombok has so much potential. We know that when we combine our resources and collaborate with the tourism industry on marketing and public relations initiatives, we are able to expand the market and generate increased demand for the Lombok destination.

AirAsia started its international flights between Kuala Lumpur and Lombok in October 2012 and currently operates seven return flights a week between Lombok and the Malaysian capital.