AirAsia X has appointed Tan Sri Jamaludin Ibrahim as its new independent non-executive chairman, as the group outlined measures to manage rising fuel costs and global aviation uncertainty.
The appointment comes as the airline faces a more challenging operating environment, with jet fuel prices more than doubling compared with 2025 levels, prompting the introduction of a one-off fuel surcharge across its network.
AirAsia X said it continues to see strong travel demand across its Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) markets and remains focused on strengthening Kuala Lumpur as its main hub. The airline is also developing Bahrain as a strategic hub linking Asia, the Middle East and Europe, with services scheduled to begin on June 26, 2026.
In response to market volatility, the group has reallocated capacity towards higher-yielding routes including Almaty, Tashkent and Istanbul, while also exploring further development of its domestic hub in Johor Bahru.
The company said it is also negotiating with partners to manage costs and improve efficiency, while gradually reactivating its fleet to support growth.
AirAsia X added that its business model, regional network and connectivity offering position it to respond to changing market conditions as it continues to pursue expansion plans, including potential aircraft orders and additional leased capacity.