KUALA LUMPUR (June 8): Low-cost carrier AirAsia welcomes the recovery movement control order (RMCO), effective on Wednesday, June 10, announced by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin yesterday.  

In a statement, AirAsia said in recent weeks, countries around the world had resumed domestic travel and gradually reopening international borders in recognition that air transport provides the connectivity that is essential for the resumption of economic activities.

It said the formation and discussion of “travel bubbles” and “green lanes”  with key economic partners with a low infection rate and proven pandemic curbing systems are a step in the right direction.

AirAsia said the aviation and tourism sectors account for around 4% and 10% of world gross domestic product (GDP) respectively.

The carrier said over 65 million jobs are supported worldwide by the aviation sector, while one in 10 jobs around the world is contributed by the tourism sector.

AirAsia added that air travel remains one of the safest modes of travel.

Citing the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the airline said evidence suggests that the risk of transmission on board is extremely low.

“Aircraft are equipped with features that will reduce the already-low risk of transmission on board.

“Passengers are seated facing forward with the seat back serving as a solid barrier, while cabin air is fully filtered and renewed every two to three minutes through hospital-grade high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, ensuring cleanliness.

“Coupled with a layered approach of biosafety measures covering the entire passenger journey, the risk of transmission on board is further minimised,” it said.

Besides complying with the advice and regulations of the government and health authorities, AirAsia said it had also implemented end-to-end contactless procedures and a series of new safety measures, as well as taking care of those most at risk to ensure the safety of all travelling guests.