AirAsia X (AAX) Berhad marked a major milestone in its global expansion with the announcement of two highly anticipated international routes connecting Kuala Lumpur to Bahrain and onward to London Gatwick (KUL–BAH–LGW). The new service was officially unveiled during a press conference held in Bahrain today.
The Bahrain–London leg will become AAX’s second Fifth-Freedom route, representing a significant step beyond its Asia-based network and reinforcing its growing presence in the global budget travel market. Scheduled to begin on 26 June 2026, the new routes establish Bahrain as AirAsia X’s first strategic hub outside Asia, strengthening connectivity between Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Leveraging Bahrain’s advantageous geographic position and strong aviation infrastructure, the KUL–BAH–LGW service is designed as a multi-sector route that supports transit growth and partnership opportunities.
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Advisor to AAX, described the announcement as a defining moment for the airline’s future:
“This is a defining step in the next phase of AAX’s growth. Bahrain as our strategic aviation hub allows us to connect Asia with the Middle East and Europe more effectively while creating a scalable platform for future growth. Beyond the airline, this partnership strengthens the broader aviation ecosystem, enabling Capital A businesses such as cargo and MRO services to scale alongside AAX.”
Fernandes also highlighted Teleport’s first arrival in Bahrain as an important milestone following its recent USD50 million capital raise, positioning the Kingdom as a rising aviation and logistics hub.
H.E. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy of Bahrain, welcomed the partnership, emphasizing its economic significance:
“This agreement with AirAsia X is a strategic decision that reflects Bahrain’s strength as an economic partner and its role as a centre for regional and global connectivity. The investment will reinforce Bahrain’s position as a key gateway linking Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, while delivering tangible economic benefits.”
He added that the new route will create direct employment in aviation operations and unlock wider opportunities across tourism, logistics, hospitality, and related sectors, while supporting skills development for Bahrainis.
With this launch, AirAsia X continues to expand its network of more than 150 destinations worldwide, redefining both short-haul and long-haul travel through low-cost efficiency, strategic partnerships, and hub-based connectivity. Kuala Lumpur remains the airline’s primary gateway, linking travelers to 95 destinations across 23 Asian countries through nearly 2,000 weekly flights.
Operating on its Airbus A330 fleet, the new KUL–BAH–LGW route will also enhance travel access for passengers from Australia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and other key markets, providing more affordable and convenient pathways to Bahrain and London.
To celebrate the milestone, AAX is offering limited-time promotional fares starting from RM99* to Bahrain and RM199* to London (one-way, all-in). Regular promotional fares will begin from RM299* and RM399* respectively. Premium Flatbed seats will also be available from RM2,999* one-way for guests seeking an elevated travel experience.
Bookings are open starting today until 22 February 2026, with travel valid from 26 June to 30 November 2026. Tickets can be purchased via airasia.com and the AirAsia MOVE app.
*The promotional all-in fares are quoted for one-way travel only on a first-come first-served basis. The fares include passenger service charge, regulatory service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. Other terms and conditions apply.
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