Air Asia Zest Announces New CEO, Increases Flights to Macau

AirAsia Zest has announced that it has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer. According to the airline's board of directors, Joy Cañeba, was appointed as CEO, board director, and accountable manager effective April 1.

Copyright Photo: Angelo Agcamaran/PPSG

A lawyer by profession, Cañeba played a vital role in establishing AirAsia Philippines at Clark International Airport in 2011. In addition, she helped to facilitate AirAsia Philippines' acquisition of Zest Air via strategic alliance last year. Cañeba is also credited with leading the team during the rebranding and launch of AirAsia Zest.

According to Maan Hontiveros, Chairperson of AirAsia Zest and CEO of AirAsia Philippines, the company has confidence that their new CEO is the right person for the job. "We have tremendous confidence in Joy's expertise and leadership," said Hontiveros. "I have worked closely with her on many occasions when we started AirAsia Philippines. The aviation industry is going to be a lot more exciting given her fresh new perspective, impeccable work ethic and determination."

Tony Fernandes, CEO of AirAsia Group, also expressed his confidence in the new CEO. "We are extremely happy to see Joy leading the AirAsia Zest team. She has been an advisor and counsel to AirAsia Philippines during its inception and she played a key role in establishing its brand and operations," said Fernandes. "Her knowledge of the AirAsia business, people and culture would be a brilliant addition to the existing team as they set off to create aviation history in the Philippines."

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As for Cañeba, she feels honored to have the privilege of leading AirAsia Zest. "Our strategic objectives as a team remain as fundamental today as they were when we signed the alliance with AirAsia Philippines over a year ago," said Cañeba. "We are here to transform the travel industry by staying true to our commitment to safety, integrity and excellent service."

Meanwhile, AirAsia Zest also revealed that it will be increasing the number of flights to Macau beginning in July. According to the budget carrier, it plans to increase the number of frequencies from the existing three flights per week to daily service between Manila and Macau starting July 1. Promo fares will start as low as P799 all-in. 

Flights will be operated using the company's Airbus A320 aircraft. Flight Z2 088 will depart Manila daily at 12:35pm, arriving in Macau at 2:45pm. The return flight, Z2 089, will depart Macau at 3:55pm, arriving back in Manila at 5:30pm.