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Malaysian based budget carrier AirAsia is showing signs of continuous expansion thanks to the high demand for cheap flights throughout Asia.

From April to the end of the year (2009) the airline is taking delivery of 14 new Airbus A320 aircraft. These new aircraft will mostly be for its Indonesian and Thai affiliate carriers. Expansion throughout Asia is continuing, with AirAsia planning new hubs in the region, in the beach / holiday regions of Phuket in Thailand and Penang in Malaysia, plus two new Indonesian bases of Medan and Bandung.

AirAsia offer incredibly cheap flights throughout the Asia region and its sister airline AirAsia X offer cheap long haul flights, notably London-Kuala Lumpur.

Its news that will delight all airline passengers – the UK Civil Aviation Authority have revealed a considerable improvement in UK flight punctuality in 2008 compared to 2007. This covers both charter and scheduled flights.

On time performance (which is early, on time or up to 15 minutes late at take off) now stands at 77%, which is an increase of 8% from 2007.

London Heathrow recorded a 13% improvement; Gatwick saw an improvement of 9% and London Luton 5%. All UK regional airports reported improvements and the best performing was Edinburgh Airport. This airport saw 83% of its scheduled flights departing on time.