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AirAsia X launches Kuala Lumpur-Bahrain-London route
AirAsia X (AAX) Berhad has announced the launch of a new international route connecting Kuala Lumpur to Bahrain and onwards to London Gatwick, marking a significant step in the airline's global expansion. The announcement was made at a press conference in Bahrain on 12 February 2026, with the new service set to commence on 26 June 2026. The new route, which includes the Bahrain-London sector, is AAX's second Fifth-Freedom route, allowing the airline to extend its reach beyond Asia and into the global budget travel market. This strategic move positions Bahrain as AAX's first global hub, serving as a crucial gateway between Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The airline aims to leverage Bahrain's strategic location and robust aviation infrastructure to enhance transit and partnership opportunities. Tony Fernandes, Group CEO of Capital A and Co-founder of AirAsia, highlighted the significance of this development: "This new route not only strengthens our network but also underscores our commitment to providing affordable travel options to a broader audience." The establishment of Bahrain as a strategic hub is expected to boost tourism and economic ties between the regions, offering passengers more travel options and convenience. The KUL-BAH-LGW service is anticipated to attract both leisure and business travellers, further solidifying AirAsia X's presence in the international aviation market This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
AirAsia X selects Bahrain as strategic hub
AirAsia X (AAX) Berhad has announced a pivotal step in its international expansion by designating Bahrain as a strategic hub to enhance connectivity across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Australia. This move is part of AAX's broader strategy to extend its medium-haul network beyond Asia, aiming to create a more globally connected long-haul network. The decision follows a Letter of Intent signed on 3 November 2025 between Capital A Berhad and Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications. This agreement aims to develop Bahrain as AAX’s Middle East hub, leveraging its strategic location and robust aviation infrastructure. The collaboration is expected to facilitate increased flows of travellers, trade, and tourism across these regions. Bahrain's central position makes it an ideal location for AAX's expansion plans, providing a gateway to multiple continents. This initiative reflects AAX's ambition to establish strategic hubs beyond Southeast Asia, thereby strengthening its global presence and offering enhanced connectivity for its passengers. The establishment of Bahrain as a hub is anticipated to significantly boost the airline's operational capabilities and market reach, aligning with its long-term growth objectives. As AirAsia X continues to expand its network, passengers can expect more travel options and improved access to diverse destinations This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
AirAsia X supports Malaysian athletes headed to the 2026 ASEAN Para Games
AirAsia X recently extended its charter service to support Malaysian athletes competing at the now-ongoing ASEAN Para Games. The airline ferried nearly 360 athletes and coaches from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok to compete from 15th to 27th January. Operated under a special charter agreement between the National Sports Council of Malaysia and AirAsia X Berhad, this mission underscores the airline's commitment to inclusivity and national pride, ensuring the contingents travel together in comfort. AirAsia X chief executive Benyamin Ismail said of the service: "It is an honour to fly our national heroes to Bangkok. These athletes represent the best of Malaysia. Their determination, resilience and spirit inspire us all. We are proud to play our part in supporting their journey to the ASEAN Para Games”. This initiative also reflects AAX’s role beyond commercial aviation, serving as a proud partner in Malaysia’s sporting journey by championing equal opportunities for athletes at a regional stage.
AirAsia X releases financials for Q3-2025
AirAsia X Berhad reported its unaudited financial results for the third quarter ended 30th September earlier today, 28th November. The Company recorded turnover of RM803.5 million in Q3-2025, marginally higher than the RM795.0 million achieved at the end of Q3-2024. This was supported by a healthier fare environment and higher ancillary income, along with a healthy Passenger Load Factor (PLF) of 82 percent. As part of a deliberate, group-wide network optimisation to prioritise longer-haul widebody flying, the Company redeployed selected shorter and medium-haul routes, including Bangkok, Hong Kong, Amritsar and Perth, to its sister airline, which operates more cost-efficient narrowbody aircraft on these sectors. According to airline chief executive Benyamin Ismail: “The Company’s performance this quarter signals the resilience of our fare environment, driven by robust demand even during a typically softer travel period. Maintaining an 82 percent PLF was a feat and reflected the strength of our core markets and the effectiveness of the team’s continuous optimisation of our network strategy.” Key points from the quarter As a result of this strategic realignment, passengers carried declined by five percent; nonetheless, available seat kilometres were up nine percent YoY as AirAsia X lengthened average stage and improved daily aircraft utilisation to 16 hours, demonstrating the effectiveness of its focus on optimising asset productivity rather than chasing volume. Meanwhile, Revenue Passenger Kilometres rose seven percent YoY to 4,570 million, buoyed by consistently high PLF on key routes in China and Japan. Average base fare increased 5% YoY to RM466 in 3Q25 as market demand built up towards the upcoming peak travel season. Ancillary income remained an important earnings driver, up by five percent YoY to RM280.6 million as ancillary revenue per passenger rose 11 percent YoY to RM273, with duty free sales showing significant improvements against last year. Net operating profit advanced to RM12.0 million during the quarter versus RM3.0 million at the same time last year driven by favourable fuel cost and stronger local currency. Consequently, cost per ASK (CASK) dropped by nine percent YoY to 12.68 sen while CASK ex-fuel saw a modest increase of two percent to 6.72 sen. Profit after tax stood at RM27.8 million compared to RM121.6 million in 3Q24, the latter of which benefited from substantial net foreign exchange gains.
AirAsia X marks a milestone in its support of the Malaysian Battalion
AirAsia X marked yet another milestone in its history of supporting the Malaysian Battalion (MALBATT)'s mission. On Wednesday, 5th November., the airline facilitated the successful departure of its chartered flight from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB) to Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY), carrying 150 Malaysian Armed Forces personnel from the first group of MALBATT 850-13. Operated under a special charter agreement between the Government of Malaysia and AirAsia Berhad, this mission underscores the airline's operational capability, reliability and commitment to serving Malaysia beyond commercial operations. 13 years of proud support to the nation Now in its 13th year of supporting MALBATT peacekeeping missions, AirAsia X remains honoured to play a role in the safe and efficient deployment of Malaysian troops to Lebanon. Over the course of this year’s deployment, AirAsia X will carry a total of 532 passengers from SZB to BEY and on return flights, comprising MALBATT troops between 5, 9, 13, and 17 November. This long-standing collaboration reflects the airline’s enduring partnership with the Malaysian Armed Forces and its proud role in facilitating Malaysia’s continued contribution to international peacekeeping under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
AirAsia X begins final stage of consolidation proceedings
AirAsia X Berhad announced that all conditions precedent set out in the Share Sale and Purchase Agreements (SSPAs) between AAX and Capital A Berhad have been fulfilled or waived as of Thursday, 30th October. Accordingly, as of Wednesday, 29th October,the SSPAs became unconditional in accordance with their terms and conditions. This development marks a major milestone in the proposed acquisitions of AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL) and AirAsia Berhad (AAB), collectively forming the foundation of a consolidated airline platform under AirAsia X, which will be called AirAsia Group. This consolidated entity will be serving both medium- and short-haul routes across Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and beyond. Conditions met to the letter This latest development follows the fulfilment of all outstanding requirements. As of press time, all stakeholder consent letters and the RM1 billion private placement commitment letters for AirAsia X have been secured, along with the resolution of a regulatory exemption required from Thailand last 17th October. AirAsia X Berhad chair Fam Lee Ee said: “This is a significant step, marking AirAsia’s evolution into its next chapter. Both AirAsia and AirAsia X pioneered low-cost travel in Asia, and with the creation of AirAsia group, we are evolving that legacy to become the world’s first low-cost network carrier.” Fam added that, as the transaction is now unconditional, AirAsia Group finds itself in a better position from which to accelerate Southeast Asia’s position as a global low-cost megahub. He said: “This will boost economic multiplier benefits across the region by expanding our reach across key regions including Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and Europe. Together, we are shaping the next chapter of inclusive travel for the world.” At the same time, the consolidation will enable AirAsia Group to capture efficiencies across the value chain, from fleet and network planning to digital operations and customer experience thus creating a more agile, scalable and globally competitive low-cost airline group.
AirAsia X to mark 18th anniversary with a major sale
In celebration of its upcoming 18th anniversary, AirAsia X (AAX) offers travelers the chance to explore exciting destinations at unbeatable prices. From now until AAX’s birthday on Sunday, 2nd November, fares to all of the airline’s routes are on sale starting from RM338 for travel till 30th November 2026 via airasia.com or the AirAsia MOVE app. Intrepid travellers can fly affordably to Taipei, Beijing, Sydney, Tokyo, Seoul, Almaty as well as to AAX’s newest ventures Tashkent and Istanbul, whilst enjoying an additional 18 percent off on Value Pack bookings which includes meals, travel insurance, seat selection and more. Stronger over time Since its inception in 2007, AAX has transformed the travel landscape by connecting more than 50 million guests across 21 medium-haul routes in Asia, Australia, the Middle East, Europe and beyond. In line with its growth strategy, AAX has successfully launched several new routes in the past two years, including to Almaty, Kazakhstan which marked its first venture into Central Asia, followed by Tashkent, Uzbekistan and Istanbul, Türkiye. Today, AAX remains focused on exploring new routes and increasing connectivity based on demand and market potential, positioning itself as a key player in medium-haul, low-cost travel.
AirAsia X announces financial results for Q2-2025
AirAsia X Berhad reported its unaudited financial results for the second quarter ended 30th June on Tuesday, 26th August. The Company recorded a turnover of RM660.8 million in the second quarter of the year, marginally lower year-on-year as capacity rose by six percent YoY to 1.12 million seats in a softer fare environment due to low season. Passenger traffic grew by six percent YoY to 935,105 passengers, maintaining a sound Passenger Load Factor (PLF) of 83 percent, unchanged YoY despite the increased capacity. According to AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail: "AirAsia X delivered resilient performance this quarter with a sound PLF of 83%, in line with capacity growth despite the seasonally softer second quarter. The Group’s operations remained profitable even as one aircraft is pending reactivation and fares are softer as the market tries to boost demand taking advantage of the lower fuel price environment in 2Q25.” Ismail added that the final aircraft reactivation which was initially scheduled for June was deferred to the second half of the year due to the well-documented global MRO backlogs and spare parts shortages. Also, as of 30th June, AirAsia X’s total fleet stood at 19 A330 aircraft; of these, 18 aircraft are active and operational. Fares and revenue This quarter, average base fare declined to RM405, impacted by historical seasonality and cautious travel sentiments following the concerns on earthquakes in Japan. In managing seasonality, the Company had also augmented its load-active, yield-passive strategy, leveraging on the advantageous fuel price environment. Ancillary revenue bolstered the Company’s performance with revenue per passenger up by four percent YoY to RM257 and total ancillary revenue rising by ten percent YoY, driven by higher passenger volumes and enhanced product offerings particularly in the duty free and merchandise segments. Profit in Q2-2025 Net profit rose sharply to RM35.22 million against last year’s RM4.82 million, boosted by favourable net foreign exchange gains. In the second quarter, the Company’s net operating profit improved 26 percent YoY to RM1.38 million supported by lower fuel prices. The Company’s cost per available-seat-kilometres (ASK / CASK) fell by 13 percent YoY to 12.05 sen while CASK ex-fuel stood at 6.38 sen, up by nine percent YoY reflecting operational ramp-up and higher maintenance expenses over the last 12 months. In terms of capacity and network, the Company’s ASK grew by ten percent YoY to 4,851 millions as AirAsia X continued to observe strong PLF of beyond 85 percent from its East Asian routes in Japan, China and South Korea driven by the peak spring travel season during the quarter. Associate performance in Q2-2025 Company associate AirAsia X Thailand (TAAX) posted a revenue of RM372.82 million and an operating loss of RM13.2 million in Q2-2025. Passenger traffic during the quarter declined by 12 percent YoY to 318,257 passengers as seat capacity reduced by five percent YoY to 407,360 seats. TAAX’s PLF stood at 78 percent this quarter as performance was pressured by softened travel demand to Thailand overall following the earthquake incident in Bangkok and related security concerns. Average fare was firm at RM690 during the quarter under review, and TAAX posted a net profit of RM10.58 million, buoyed by net foreign exchange gains. TAAX maintained a fleet of nine A330s after returning one aircraft to lessor during the quarter.
AirAsia X launches a new direct route between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 15 Oct
AirAsia X (AAX), the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline, announced its upcoming entry into Uzbekistan with the launch of a new direct route between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Scheduled to commence on 15 October 2025 with three flights weekly, the new service forms part of AAX’s broader strategy to connect emerging Central Asian markets to its extensive network of over 130 destinations through its Fly-Thru hub in Kuala Lumpur. The announcement comes at a pivotal time as Uzbekistan targets 15.8 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2025. The new connection is expected to boost two-way traffic, bringing more travellers from Southeast Asia into Uzbekistan while offering Uzbeks greater access to destinations across Asia, Australia, and beyond. Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X said: “Our mission has always been to make medium-haul travel more accessible and affordable, and we are excited to extend this offering to travellers from Uzbekistan with our entry into Tashkent. The strong performance of our Almaty route has reaffirmed the potential of Central Asia, prompting us to grow further in the region. “Through Kuala Lumpur, guests from Tashkent can now connect to over 130 destinations, including top cities in Southeast Asia, China, Australia, and more. Similarly, we are already seeing encouraging forward bookings for the Tashkent route, with strong demand from Malaysia, China, Indonesia, and Singapore, showing clear interest from travellers across the region. “This new route also reflects the growing ties between Malaysia and Uzbekistan, as both countries deepen cooperation in trade, education, Islamic tourism, and cultural exchange. While supporting Uzbekistan’s tourism goals, this route also supports broader national initiatives, including Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which aims to attract more travellers from Central Asia.” Dr. Mukhtaramin Bekzod, Chairman of AA Aviation Management Group said: “We are confident this service will be well-received by Uzbek travellers seeking affordable and convenient access to Southeast Asia, Australia, and beyond. With AirAsia X’s extensive Fly-Thru network via Kuala Lumpur, this route opens the door to new markets for outbound travel, while also encouraging more inbound visitors from across Southeast Asia into Uzbekistan. This connectivity will play a vital role in supporting Uzbekistan’s tourism and economic growth by creating new opportunities for leisure, business, and cultural exchange.” In celebration of the new route, AAX is offering promotional fares from Tashkent to Kuala Lumpur, starting from only or UZS2,719,000 (USD199) all-in* one-way, with an additional 20%** off. The promotional fares are available for booking through AA Aviation Management Group, AAX’s official sales agent*** in Uzbekistan, or on the AirAsia MOVE app and airasia.com. The promotional fare is available from now until 3 August 2025 for the travel period between 15 October 2025 and 15 December 2025.
AirAsia X marks first month of Karachi-Kuala Lumpur route
AirAsia’s medium-haul affiliate AirAsia X (AAX) celebrated the first full month of operations for its Karachi–Kuala Lumpur route on Monday, 30th June. The route between Malaysia and Pakistan recorded an average load factor of 80 percent since the inaugural flight took off on 30th May. The consistently strong demand from both Karachi and Kuala Lumpur reflects the robust air travel market between Pakistan and Malaysia. Indeed, forward bookings for the next quarter remain healthy, with solid load factors projected for the months to come, further affirming confidence in the route’s long-term potential. AirAsia CEO Benyamin Ismail said of the route’s strong performance: “The response to this route has exceeded our expectations. We are not only connecting two vibrant cities but also enabling affordable access to more than 130 destinations across the AirAsia network. This aligns with our strategy of expanding into high-potential, underserved markets with strong demand for value-based medium-haul travel.” Likewise, Malaysian high commissioner to Pakistan Mohammad Azhar Bin Mazlan declared: “The launch of AAX direct flights between Karachi and Kuala Lumpur, and the strong momentum it has achieved in just one month, marks a significant step forward in strengthening the people-to-people, economic, and cultural ties between Malaysia and Pakistan. Enhanced air connectivity such as this opens new avenues for trade, tourism, education, and investment. We commend AAX for its commitment to improving regional connectivity and are proud to support its efforts in making Malaysia even more accessible to travellers from Pakistan, especially as we look ahead to Visit Malaysia 2026.” A great way to connect with destinations throughout the Asia-Pacific Beyond point-to-point traffic, more than half of Pakistani guests connect via Kuala Lumpur to other destinations across Asean and beyond through AirAsia’s Fly-Thru service. Top connecting cities include Bali, Phuket, Singapore, Perth, Melbourne and more, representing an increasing appetite for multi-stop travel among Pakistani outbound passengers. Additionally, 90 percent of over 7,000 travellers in this sector thus far are non-Malaysians, highlighting the route’s role in strengthening Kuala Lumpur’s position as a regional hub. To celebrate the milestone, AAX is offering limited-time promotional all-in fares starting from only PKR59,999 one-way from Karachi to Kuala Lumpur and from RM759 one-way from Kuala Lumpur to Karachi. Bookings are available now through the AirAsia MOVE app, airasia.com, and authorised travel agents till 6 July for the travel period from 14th July 2025 to 30th June 2026.
HEDNA Bangkok – September 11-12 2023
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