AirAsia founder says more job cuts likely unless borders reopen

Tony Fernandes calls on leaders to 'bravely' restart travel as losses mount

20200827 Air Asia

AirAsia Group founder Tony Fernandes is urging Southeast Asian leaders to open up international travel in a safe way. (Source photo by Yuki Nakao) 

P Prem Kumar, Nikkei staff writer

KUALA LUMPUR -- AirAsia Group founder Tony Fernandes has called for Southeast Asian economies to open their international borders, warning that continued travel restrictions could force the budget carrier to lay off even more workers.

Speaking at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur, Fernandes said AirAsia would be forced to downsize further if borders remain closed for the medium term. "I hope not [to downsize] but there is a lot of other factors that we have to take into account, and we might be left with no other option," he said.

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