Malaysia’s AirAsia is staking out the densely populated Southeast Asia as its medium-term operating territory, rejecting lucrative China as too problematic, even for the long term. The highly profitable no-frills carrier, which boasts the world’s lowest operating costs, will become the largest user of Airbus A320s following an order for 25 of the type concluded on Dec. 5.

Commercial aircraft makers and their suppliers have enjoyed a record three-year run in order intake, but realistic outlooks may soon return as commitments start falling to more normal levels. “This year is probably reaching the peak,” says Airbus chief operating officer for customers, John Leahy. Airbus has already surpassed its record of 1,111 gross orders set in 2005, and should finish the year with well above 1,200 firm purchases.

A Malaysian requirement for 12 medium utility helicopters may lead to much larger sales if the country works toward a proposed inventory of 74 units, making the program one of the most attractive in Asia. The competition is attracting interest from Sikorsky, Kazan Helicopters, Eurocopter, Boeing and AgustaWestland, with bids due on Jan. 8. The eventual order is only part of a broad push by the Malaysian armed forces to buy more helicopters, and it is taking money from other programs.