Malaysia Airlines offers 'super low' rates

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airlines on Monday said it would offer "super low" airfares for advanced bookings this week for international destinations.

Travellers can enjoy up to 75 per cent discount on all air fares, except those for Australia, if they book online for travel between January and May next year.

"We want to encourage more people to book online as it has never been easier, especially as we move towards electronic ticketing this year," said Malaysia Airlines commercial director Rashid Khan.

"As the offers cover a five-month travel period next year, customers are invited to plan their travel well in advance now and purchase their tickets," he added.

One way fares start from USD 8 for destinations in Southeast Asia and USD 89 in North Asia and the Indian sub-continent. Fares start from USD 205 to Europe and the Middle East, the company said.

The offer came three days after British businessman Richard Branson's Virgin Group announced it would take a 20 per cent stake in rival AirAsia's long-haul budget carrier.

Analysts have said Branson's entry would give AirAsia a stronger foothold in the long-haul market after making its presence felt in short-haul destinations.