AirAsia posted a 73% leap in net profit to MYR245.7 million (US$76.7 million) for its fiscal second quarter ended Dec. 31, from MYR142.1 million in the year-ago period, on a 43% lift in revenue to MYR632.7 million.

Operating profit (EBIT) jumped 77% to MYR154.9 million from MYR86.8 million. "This has indeed been a fantastic year for our airline, highlighted by robust growth, record profits, industry leading performance and award-winning standards," CEO Tony Fernandes said. "Our humble beginnings took flight six years ago and after 24 consecutive profitable quarters, we are now the highest profit margin [38.8%] airline in the world."

Fiscal second-quarter traffic increased 29% to 3.22 billion RPKs on a 40% jump in capacity to 4.27 billion ASKs. AirAsia said the results were achieved on the back of 21% growth in passenger volume, 17% higher average ticket prices and a 49% increase in ancillary income, which totaled MYR42 million and now comprises 6.6% of revenue. CASK rose 7% to 3.43 cents as fuel prices climbed 31%. Excluding fuel, CASK declined 3% to 1.66 cents, which the carrier attributed to introduction of more fuel efficient A320s to its fleet.

For 2008 AirAsia is predicting passenger growth of 20%, with the bulk of its new capacity to be injected on international routes. It stated that "barring any unforeseen circumstances," growth and profits will continue going forward.