AirAsia X appoints Kamarudin Meranun as its new CEO

Datuk Kamarudin Meranun has been appointed as the new Group CEO of AirAsia X, with Benyamin Ismail as the acting CEO of AirAsia X Berhad as part of an on-going reorganisation exercise.

In a statement released today, AirAsia X said, Kamarudin will spearhead development of the overarching strategy for the group with encompasses AirAsia X Berhad, AirAsia X Thailand and Indonesia AirAsia Extra.

Benyamin meanwhile, will assist Kamarudin to lead the reorganisation and turnaround exercise to strengthen the company’s balance sheet and to maximise profitability.

“Over the past few months, we saw the company facing challenges in a difficult environment.

“After a thorough review, a decisive turnaround plan was initiated to put the company on substantially better financial footing to ensure we bring back confidence to the market," Kamarudin said.

He also expressed his confidence in turning around the company and bringing it to profitable growth.

The company will also aims to expand into new markets and build an unbeatable regional network.

“Under the mentorship of Datuk Kamarudin combined with the synergy of the AirAsia network, we will be able to cement our position as the airline of choice across this region,” Benyamin said.

The statement had also put to rest speculation on Azran Osman-Rani’s position in the company, saying that he would no longer hold the CEO’s post effective Jan 30.

Meanwhile AirAsia Group CEO, Tan Sri Tony Fernandes expressed his excitement over the appointment saying it will him to focus his attention on the company.