Last week, Tony Fernandes, chief executive and founder of AirAsia X, in which Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin group holds a 16 per cent stake, announced he would start services in March between London Stansted and Kuala Lumpur
for £99 one way, including taxes and charges.

Average fares on the “shuttle to Asia”, which could eventually total five flights a day, are expected to be about £150.

Fernandes, who was inspired by Freddie Laker’s Skytrain, is considering launching services to the U.S. from London, provided he can secure American flight rights and suitable aircraft.

He is also looking at flying to Los Angeles from Kuala Lumpur.

The entrepreneur believes the airline can withstand the economic downturn despite the past failures of low-cost, long-haul operations. “Everyone in Asia wants to see Big Ben and a Premier League football match,” he said.

AirAsia X began flying last November with a service between Kuala Lumpur and Australia’s Gold Coast. Passengers from London can connect with Australia via the Malaysian capital.