AirAsia X Gets Green Light for Seoul

Seoul, here we come! ( hopefully by October!)

Malaysians who are K-pop or Hallyu fans, rejoice! AirAsia X has finally got the rights to fly seven times a week to Seoul. Though the budget airline has yet to iron out details as to the actual date of its inaugural flight, it may coincide with the visit of the South Korean premier to Malaysia when both countries celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties.

The news may not just mean that more Malaysian tourists will soon be flying into Seoul to stock up on their supplies of ginseng, Nongshim instant noodles or Kpop music CDs. It could also mean more Koreans flying into Malaysia to take advantage of the lower fees for playing golf and the Malaysian sun to escape the winter blues. Great win-win situation for almost all but how will it affect the bottom lines for Malaysian Airlines and Korean Airlines?

Am assuming Air Asia executives are eyeing Incheon International Airport. I've got nothing against IIA - it's my favourite airport but can't help wishing Air Asia would consider flying a few times a week into Yangyang Airport in Gangwon-do. That way, it would be easier for visitors to get to Soraksan National Park more quickly. Not everyone may want the city lights and those in favour of flying into Seoul would dismiss this notion as impractical, etc. but I guess I'm in the minority. Still, I shouldn't be greedy - so once again, three cheers for Air Asia X and please do keep the airfares to Seoul encouragingly low.

source:
http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/4/16/business/6065503&sec=business.