Financial technology (fintech) player GCash and budget carrier AirAsia Philippines expect to grow their transactions through a strategic partnership that allows GCash users to pay for their AirAsia flights via their mobile wallets.
AirAsia Philippines CFO Ray Berja said the two groups see as much as a 10-percent hike in flight bookings and GCash in terms of transactions through the partnership. Berja used to be the CFO of GCash before moving to AirAsia Philippines.
“We expect around 5 percent to 10 percent annual increase in transactions for both GCash and AirAsia. This partnership will enhance both platforms, extending our reach to a bigger audience and allowing both to grow expansively in the digital space,” he said in a text message to the BusinessMirror.
Berja also noted that the “collaboration is a great way to expand both our subscriber bases.”
GCash currently has 40 million users, while AirAsia has 20 million customers.
Through the partnership, the two groups hope to provide “swift and seamless customer experience” to flyers.
The partnership allows GCash users to pay for their AirAsia plane fare and accommodation in partner hotels using the GCash apps on their mobile phones. They can also opt for contactless payment using the GCash app at AirAsia counters.
“At GCash, we have pioneered a number of digital payment innovations to help Filipinos during the pandemic, and this partnership with AirAsia is a continuation of its thrust to provide users with safe and convenient payment solutions. AirAsia supports this thrust as it continues to provide its customers with convenience and safety when flying with them,” GCash President Martha Sazon said.
AirAsia is also offering discounted seats for customers booking for flights from June 7 to June 13.