NEW YORK (AP) – Tony Fernandes is more than just the CEO of AirAsia: He’s the brash personality and cheerleader-like figure who gives the discount carrier its soul.
A flamboyant executive who loves race cars and soccer – and is known for speaking his mind, sometimes inappropriately – Fernandes has opened air travel to millions who previously couldn’t afford it.
Now, with one of his planes and 162 people onboard missing, Fernandes faces what he’s calling his worst nightmare.
“We will go through this terrible ordeal together,” he told his staff via Twitter hours after Flight 8501 disappeared Sunday.
“Be strong,” he said in another message. “Continue to be the best. Pray hard.”