AirAsia boss Tony Fernandes rallies staff amid ‘worst nightmare’

MANILA, Philippines—The head of AirAsia on Sunday evening called for his staff to remain positive amid the “nightmare” brought about by the disappearance of a Singapore-bound plane.

Tony Fernandes, Air Asia Group Chief Executive Officer, took to his Twitter account to show his support for his staff after flight QZ8501 went missing on Sunday.

“To all my staff AirAsia all stars be strong, continue to be the best,” Fernandes said. “Pray hard. Continue to do your best for all our guests. See you all soon.”

An Airbus A320-200 was carrying 162 people and took off Juanda international airport at Surabaya in East Gava at 5:20 am (2220 GMT Saturday) but air traffic control lost contact with the flight around an hour after takeoff.

Flight QZ8501 was en route to Singapore from Singapore when it encountered severe thunderstorms over Java Sea.

Malaysia Airlines, which lost MH17 to tragedy earlier in 2014 also showed its support for its compatriot and competitor.

“#staystrong Air Asia,” Malaysia Airlines posted on its Twitter account. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of those on board QZ8501.”

“I am touched by the massive show of support especially from my fellow airlines,” Fernandes said. “This is my worst nightmare. But there is no stopping.”

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