AirAsia X will commence a new Kuala Lumpur–London route, connecting Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Australia via an AirAsia X Bahrain hub – its first-ever strategic centre outside South-East Asia – as it eyes long-haul network expansion.
The low-cost carrier’s highly anticipated Kuala Lumpur–Bahrain and Bahrain–London Gatwick international routes are the first outside Asia for the airline, serving the global budget travel sector.
The Bahrain (BAH) – London Gatwick (LGW) service will start flying on 26 June 2026 and the new KUL-BAH-LGW service will operate on AAX’s Airbus A330 fleet.
The AirAsia X Bahrain hub will open up access to the UK and Europe for Australian travellers flying AAX from Perth, Sydney and Melbourne with more affordable flight options to Bahrain and London.
With the launch of this route, AirAsia X builds on its network of more than 150 destinations worldwide and aims to redefine its short-haul and long-haul travel by combining low-cost efficiency, strategic partnerships and hub-based links.
The establishment of Bahrain as its first strategic hub in the Middle East is a pivotal milestone in AirAsia X’s medium-haul expansion as the LCC builds towards a more globally connected long-haul network.
AirAsia X Group CEO Bo Lingam said the new routes and strategic Middle East hub cement the low-cost carrier’s ambition to be the world’s first truly global budget airline.
“Bahrain fits squarely into our long-term network blueprint to link ASEAN and Asia to the world. Our focus remains on disciplined fleet expansion, strengthening core hubs, driving ancillary and digital growth, ensuring every new market strengthens the overall network. This is how we create sustainable value for the group of airlines while continuing to democratise long-haul travel,” he said.
For a limited time, AirAsia X has promo one-way fares from Australia to London (via Kuala Lumpur and Bahrain) from AUD$365 in Economy and $1,342 for the Premium Flatbed experience.
The sale fares are available until 22 February 2026 for travel between 26 June and 30 November 2026. For more info, visit airasia.com
KARRYON UNPACKS: The establishment of an AirAsia X Bahrain hub signals a calculated push into the Europe travel market, giving Australian advisors a new value-driven pathway to London and beyond as competition intensifies on long-haul routes.
