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AirAsia X Returns to Europe in November: Non-Stop Flights Between Kuala Lumpur and Istanbul

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AirAsia X, the long-haul low-cost subsidiary of the AirAsia Group, will launch non-stop flights to Turkey starting in November, reviving its goal of connecting Asia with Europe and consolidating a global network of affordable fares. According to flight schedule data from AeroRoutes, the airline will operate four weekly flights between Kuala Lumpur and Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

Strategic Context and Bet on New Aircraft

This announcement comes shortly after the company reached a preliminary agreement to acquire up to 70 Airbus A321XLR aircraft. The commitment was finalized during the official visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to France.

The addition of these aircraft is part of the plan by Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A Bhd—AirAsia’s parent company—to restart operations to Europe and, in the future, expand the network to North America.

A Significant Return to Europe

The launch of the Kuala Lumpur–Istanbul route marks a milestone for AirAsia X. The airline previously operated flights to London and Paris between 2009 and 2012 but discontinued them over a decade ago due to declining demand and the introduction of a carbon emissions tax.

Mixed Results in Recent Expansion

As part of its market diversification strategy, AirAsia X inaugurated its Central Asia connection in 2023 with flights to Almaty, Kazakhstan. However, not all new routes have been successful: its service to Nairobi, its first foray into Africa, will be suspended on September 1 due to low demand.

This move to Istanbul represents a return to European skies and reinforces AirAsia X’s vision of becoming a key player in the long-haul low-cost segment, with ambitions to connect more continents at competitive prices.

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