First low-cost Asian airline cleared for flights to the U.S.

Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia says it’s gotten the all clear from U.S. authorities to fly its jetliners to American airports — the first low-cost Asian airline to do so. Founded by charismatic businessman Tony Fernandes, AirAsia pioneered the low-cost model in Asia, delivering rapid growth as it undercut bloated legacy carriers in the region with its no frills approach.