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Get ready to broaden your horizons, budget travelers! AirAsia X (AAX) Berhad has just unveiled a game-changing move that will redefine long-haul, affordable travel, taking the airline far beyond its Asian roots. In a monumental announcement today, AAX celebrated the launch of two highly anticipated international routes: connecting Kuala Lumpur to Bahrain and onwards to the iconic London Gatwick (KUL-BAH-LGW).
This isn’t just another route; it’s a strategic leap! Commencing on June 26, 2026, these new services establish Bahrain as AAX’s very first global hub. This move will significantly strengthen its role as a crucial gateway linking Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. By leveraging Bahrain’s prime geographical location and robust aviation infrastructure, the KUL-BAH-LGW service will anchor a multi-sector route ripe with transit and partnership opportunities.
A Global Vision Takes Flight
The Bahrain-London leg marks AAX’s second ‘Fifth-Freedom’ route, a significant milestone that symbolizes the airline’s bold expansion beyond its home ground in Asia, directly serving the global budget travel sector. Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Advisor to AAX, articulated the magnitude of this step: “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.”
But it’s not just about flights. This partnership aims to bolster the entire aviation ecosystem, enabling other Capital A businesses like cargo (Teleport) and MRO services to scale alongside AAX. Teleport, celebrating its first flight to Bahrain following a recent USD50 million capital raise, is poised to help position the Kingdom as a key aviation and logistics hub in the region.
Bahrain: A Strategic Partner
Bahrain’s role in this expansion cannot be overstated. H.E. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy of the Kingdom of Bahrain, emphasized the strategic importance: “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.”
This investment promises tangible economic benefits, including direct employment in aviation operations and wider opportunities across tourism, logistics, hospitality, and related services. It also commits to supporting skills development and long-term career pathways for Bahrainis in a dynamic global industry.
Connecting the World Affordably
With this launch, AirAsia X continues to build on its impressive network of over 150 destinations worldwide. The airline is consistently redefining both short-haul and long-haul travel by expertly combining low-cost efficiency, strategic partnerships, and hub-based connectivity. Kuala Lumpur remains a major gateway, connecting travelers to 95 destinations across 23 Asian countries with nearly 2,000 weekly flights.
Operating with AAX’s modern A330 fleet, the new KUL-BAH-LGW service will significantly broaden access for travelers from Australia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and other key markets, creating even more affordable and convenient pathways to both Bahrain and the vibrant city of London. AirAsia X is truly cementing its ambition to be a global airline, making world travel accessible to all.
Source: Original Article
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