TonyFernandes

Tony Fernandes is a dynamic and innovative leader with over 20 years of experience in aviation, music, and digital transformation. Renowned for revolutionizing Asia’s aviation landscape as the founder of AirAsia Group, known for the tagline “Now Everyone Can Fly,” he transformed it into the world’s leading low-cost carrier. He is an expert in operational efficiency, customer-centric strategies, and business turnaround. Passionate about leveraging technology to democratize air travel and empower communities, he began his career in finance at the Virgin Group under Sir Richard Branson after studying at the London School of Economics and qualifying as a Chartered Accountant with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). He then returned to Malaysia to serve as Vice President for Southeast Asia at Warner Music Group.

In 2001, Fernandes, through the newly established Tune Air Sdn Bhd, acquired the struggling AirAsia for a symbolic MYR 1. Under his leadership, AirAsia transformed into Asia’s largest low-cost carrier. Building on this success, Fernandes co-founded Tune Group, a holding company that manages AirAsia as well as businesses in hospitality, telecommunications, and financial services.

Beyond his business endeavors, Fernandes has served on the boards of various organizations, including the Asia School of Business and the Epsom College in Malaysia. He is actively engaged in initiatives that support entrepreneurship, education, and digital transformation throughout the ASEAN region.

Among his many accolades, Fernandes was named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2011 and received the Legion d’Honneur (France’s highest civilian award), recognizing his contributions to the aviation industry. In 2015, he was also included in Time magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People.