Budiey
AirAsia X Berhad, the leading low-cost, long-haul carrier announced the appointment of Dato’ Bernard Francis as the new Commercial Director of AirAsia X.
Dato’ Bernard Francis brings with him nearly 14 years of experience in aviation industry with revenue management and sales & marketing expertise. Prior to AirAsia X Berhad, Dato’ Bernard was the Commercial Director for Indonesia AirAsia. Under his leadership, Indonesia AirAsia posted a revenue of IDR4,360.13 billion (up 18% y-o-y), a 136% increase in operating profit of IDR352.89 billion, which led to a commendable 129% increase in profit after tax of IDR142.12 billion for the year ended 2012.
Dato’ Bernard Francis brings nearly 14 years of aviation industry experience to AirAsia X!
Throughout his experience, he has held the positions of Executive Vice President Network & Revenue Management and Executive Vice President Global Sales & Marketing, Malaysia Airlines, Regional Director Network & Revenue Management & Sales, AirAsia Berhad and Investment Analyst with YTL Corporation Berhad.
Dato’ Bernard holds an MBA of International Business from Universiti Malaya and B.A Hons from National University of Malaysia.
Azran Osman-Rani, CEO of AirAsia X said, “We are thrilled to have Dato’ Bernard onboard, as he brings a wealth of commercial airline experience. Complemented with his senior commercial experience in both LCCs and full-service airlines, including long-haul routes, we look forward to Dato’ Bernard injecting vigor and creativity as we push to cross the US$1 billion annual revenue mark in 2014 – cementing our position as the global leader in the long-haul LCC space”
Dato’ Bernard Francis will oversee and drive the Commercial Department of AirAsia X which consist of Revenue Management, Sales & Distribution, Marketing, Communication & Events, Branding, Route & Network Planning and Ancillary Revenue.
AirAsia X was the first long-haul, low fare carrier to introduce Premium Flatbed seats, which have standard business class specifications of 20” width, 60” pitch and stretch out to 77” in full recline position.
The Premium flatbeds feature universal power sockets, adjustable headrests and built-in personal utilities such as tray table, drink holder, reading light and privacy screen. Premium seat guests also enjoy premium complimentary products and services including Pick A Seat, Priority Check-in, Priority Boarding, Priority Baggage, 25kg Baggage Allowance, Complimentary Meal and Pillow & Duvet.
On top of that, AirAsia X recently introduced the “Quiet Zone” cabin on all its long-haul flights across China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Australia and Nepal. The new service enhancement is exclusively for guests who are above age 12. The “Quiet Zone” cabin features a new ambiance with soft lighting, offering a more relaxing cabin atmosphere, which will ensure a more pleasant journey for our guests.
AirAsia X was awarded the World’s Best Low Cost Airline Premium Seat and the World’s Best Low Cost Airline Premium Class titles at the 2013 Skytrax World Airline Awards which took place at the Paris Airshow. The AirAsia Group also received its 5th consecutive year title as the World’s Best and Asia’s Best Low Cost Airline at the 2013 Skytrax World Airline Awards.
