Malaysia Airlines calls for level playing field if AirAsia gets aid
Its CEO said the carrier is willing to step in to grow aggressively if its low-cost rival faces deeper operational problems
Malaysia is determining how to aid AirAsia without resorting to public funds, according to Anthony Loke, the former transport minister who resigned recently. The finance ministry is still considering different options to financially assist the Southeast Asia's largest low-cost airline as it faces high jet fuel prices and currency fluctuations, Loke indicated to Reuters, referencing cabinet discussions.
Unlike Malaysia Airlines, which is state-owned, AirAsia is a private company, and any support would need to be structured formally, Loke explained. The government will not simply inject money into the company. Loke declined to disclose specifics about the options being evaluated and said that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is also finance minister, would make the final decision on any conditions.
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- Malaysia weighing how to aid AirAsia without risking public funds: ex-transport minister businesstimes.com.sg
- Malaysia Airlines calls for level playing field if AirAsia gets aid freemalaysiatoday.com
