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Malaysian low-cost carrier, AirAsia X, just announced a new multi-sector route linking Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Flights between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and London Gatwick (LGW) with a stop in Bahrain International Airport (BAH) will begin on June 26th.
At a recent press conference, AirAsia X revealed two long-awaited international services connecting Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Bahrain International Airport (BAH) and onward to London Gatwick Airport (LGW). This establishes Bahrain as the airline’s first strategic hub for European operations. Air Asia X will go head to head with Gulf Air on the London flights (it started flying the route in March 2025). Air Asia last flew to London 14 years ago.
The new service positions Bahrain as AirAsia X’ first global hub outside Asia and strengthens the country’s role as a key gateway between Southeast Asia, the Gulf region, and Europe. By leveraging Bahrain International Airport’s (BAH) strategic location, the route is designed to support transit connectivity and partnership opportunities while allowing travelers to move more seamlessly across continents while maintaining AirAsia X’ low-cost model. This hub-based approach anchors the airline’s multi-sector growth strategy and expands its reach beyond its traditional Asia-Pacific network.
The Bahrain International Airport (BAH) to/from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) segment will represent AirAsia X’ second Fifth-Freedom route. On June 15th, the airline will debut daily flights between Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) an Osaka’s Kansai International Airport (KIX).
Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, General Manager of AirAsia Malaysia, said:
The strong demand for our first Fifth-Freedom route between Taipei and Fukuoka last year is a clear testament to the success of this strategy, with an average passenger load factor of over 90 per cent since the service commenced. Building on this momentum, we are now introducing the new Kaohsiung-Osaka route as part of our ongoing network expansion, where we strengthen existing routes while unlocking new market opportunities.”
This London addition further reflects AirAsia X’ growing focus on serving the global budget travel sector and expansion beyond its home market by creating new affordable long-haul options for travelers heading to Europe.
AirAsia X continues to build Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) as its primary hub. Currently, it connects travelers to 95 destinations across 23 Asian countries with nearly 2,000 weekly flights.
The airline’s established network includes major markets such as:
- Vietnam
- Sri Lanka
- Australia
- Japan
Flights will be operated using AirAsia X’ Airbus A330 aircraft at launch, but Paddle Your Own Kanoo points out that there are 20 single-aisle Airbus A321XLR aircraft on the way and this route will switch to those at some point. The route is expected to broaden affordable travel opportunities not only between Malaysia and Europe, but also for passengers across AirAsia’s wider network connecting through Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL).
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Advisor to AAX, said:
This is a defining step in the next phase of AAX’ 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. Today, Teleport marks an important milestone as its first flight arrives in Bahrain, following its recent USD50 million capital raise – a move that will help position the Kingdom as a key aviation and logistics hub in the region. Looking ahead, we will deepen partnerships with airports, tourism authorities and industry stakeholders to unlock new demand corridors. We are building a growth engine that balances connectivity, commercial performance and operational resilience, while staying true to our value proposition of affordable long-haul travel.”
Anthony’s Take: This is big news for Air Asia X as well as passengers in the area looking for an affordable way to get to Europe.
(Image Credits: Air Asia.)
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