KUALA LUMPUR: AirAsia X Bhd (AAX) has launched its inaugural direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul, marking its entry into Türkiye and expanding its regional network.
In a statement, the carrier said the launch marked AAX’s first service to Türkiye and reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its long-haul network beyond Asia.
Capital A executive chairman Datuk Kamarudin Meranun said the launch of AAX’s inaugural service to Istanbul marks a bold and long-awaited step in the airline’s long-haul growth strategy.
He said Türkiye represents a strong and dynamic market with significant potential for both leisure and business travel, and the new route enhances connectivity between Southeast Asia and Eurasia while reinforcing AAX’s position in the affordable long-haul segment.
“As demand for international travel to various major cities in Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East continues to accelerate, we remain focused on expanding into strategic markets that strengthen our global footprint and deliver greater value to our guests, partners and stakeholders across the region,” he said.
Meanwhile, AAX CEO Benyamin Ismail said Istanbul has long been one of the most requested destinations among the airline’s guests, describing it as a crossroads where East meets West and a city rich in history, culture and commerce.
He said the new direct service not only launches a route but also establishes an important bridge between Southeast Asia and Europe.
“This inaugural flight is also timely as we gear up for Visit Malaysia 2026, supporting the nation’s efforts to boost inbound tourism and regional connectivity, serving as a key step in rebuilding our network and reaffirming our leadership in long-haul, low-cost travel - connecting more people, more often, to more places and making the world a cosier place,” he added.
Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Malaysia, Emir Salim Yüksel, said he believes the new air bridge between Kuala Lumpur and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport will not only support the development of Türkiye–Malaysia relations but also strengthen global connectivity more broadly.
AAX operates four weekly flights to Istanbul, offering more than 150,000 seats a year with all-in one-way fares from RM749 or US$205. Promotional fares are available from today until Nov 30, 2025, for travel through Sept 14, 2026, on airasia.com and the AirAsia MOVE app.
