AirAsia X appoints new Group CEO

PETALING JAYA: AirAsia X Bhd today announced the re-designations of Co-Group CEO Kamarudin Meranun and Co-Group CEO Tony Fernandes as non-executive directors.

A statement from the long-haul low-cost carrier said Kamarudin and Fernandes will both continue to oversee the strategic direction of the business and its operations as directors of AirAsia X Bhd.

AirAsia X Thailand CEO Nadda Buranasiri has been appointed the new AirAsia X Group CEO, effective immediately.

Commenting on the appointment, Fernandes said today’s announcement was an important one for the long-haul airline of AirAsia as it continues with its business transformation plans to take long-haul, value air travel to new heights.

“AirAsia X pioneered long-haul, low-cost air travel 11 years ago on Nov 2, 2007 and continues to grow in line with consumer demand, which is gaining momentum the world over.

“Nadda has had an exceptional career and brings a wealth of experience in a broad range of industries, including senior roles in sales, advertising, banking and the music industry,” Fernandes said.

Fernandes and Buranasiri had worked together in 1996 when the latter was the managing director of record label MCA, which later became Universal Music Thailand.

Buranasiri joined the aviation industry in January 2014 as CEO of AirAsia X Thailand.

Fernandes said Buranasiri had been instrumental in not only setting up the carrier’s Bangkok-based long-haul operations but also making it one of the most successful and popular long-haul airlines in Asia.

“This is a great example of our internal talent development and succession planning for our key leadership roles,” he added.

Kamarudin also congratulated Buranasiri on his new appointment.