Malaysian long-haul low-cost carrier AirAsia X has confirmed the resumption of flights between Kuala Lumpur and London. This route, which operated until 2012, was non-stop at the time. This time, there will be a stopover at Bahrain promoted to new hub in the AirAsia constellation.
The flights will be operated from 26 June aboard an Airbus A330 aircraft offering a Premium class - with sleeper seat - and an Economy class. The airport served will be London-Gatwick, with daily frequencies. In Bahrain, passengers will be in transit between 1h25 and two hours, depending on the day.
The route will mark Bahrain's debut as AirAsia's first hub outside Asia. From Bahrain, the low-cost carrier aims to serve not only Southeast Asia, but also the Middle East, Africa and Europe. In particular, secondary destinations.
According to Tony Fernandes, co-founder of AirAsia, Bahrain could even become a regional gateway for secondary cities with inadequate intercontinental connections.
"Do in Europe and Africa what we have done in Asia".
The receipt of very long-range Airbus A321XLRs will give it the means to achieve its ambition. "This aircraft allows me to start thinking about doing in Europe and Africa what we have succeeded in Asia," explained Tony Fernandes, referring to potential secondary routes such as Penang-Cologne or Penang-Prague. Last year, AirAsia signed an order for 50 Airbus A321XLRs with an option for a further 20 aircraft. The first aircraft are due to join the fleet in 2028.
For their part, the A330s will only be used on routes with greater potential and over longer distances. The carrier has also confirmed that it will shortly be offering a second daily flight between Kuala Lumpur and Istanbul. Pending the rise of Bahrain.
