AirAsia Berhad (“AirAsia”) was ranked the top Malaysian brand in the Asia’s Top 1,000 Brands from a survey conducted by Campaign Asia-Pacific and Nielsen.
 
According to The Star, the long-haul low cost airline stood at 34th spot, rising from 43rd spot last year based on the latest annual study. This is the highest ranking achieved by AirAsia in its 12 years history in such poll. To top it off, besides being crowned the top Malaysian brand, it also emerged as the top overall airline brand in the region. It has occupied the coveted spot every year since overtaking Singapore Airlines in 2010.

On a separate news from The Star article on Wednesday, AirAsia is looking for possible areas to collaborate with the new Malaysia Airlines (“MAS”).  This came in response to a statement by the new MAS’ CEO, Christopher Mueller, to seek collaboration with the low-cost carrier and other potential partners.
 
Tony Fernandes, the AirAsia’s CEO said both companies had already entered into discussions but it was still in the early stages. He said, “In reducing cost, it will be a great thing if the two of us can make a regional power house in maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO)… that’s great and make sense.” He added, “We have to put our planes somewhere for maintenance and why not do it in Malaysia and do it with MAS.” According to Fernandes, both airlines would reduce their cost and they could offer services to third party airlines globally should the collaboration is successful.

Source: Macquarie Research - 4 Jun 2015