AirAsia X (AAX) Berhad has announced a major expansion of its long-haul network with the launch of two new international routes connecting Kuala Lumpur to Bahrain and onward to London Gatwick (KUL–BAH–LGW).
Scheduled to commence on 26 June 2026, the Bahrain–London service will represent AirAsia X’s second Fifth-Freedom route, enabling the airline to carry passengers between Bahrain and London independently of its Kuala Lumpur base.
Under the new structure, Bahrain will serve as AirAsia X’s first global hub outside Malaysia, reinforcing its status as a strategic gateway linking Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Leveraging Bahrain’s geographic location and aviation infrastructure, the multi-sector KUL–BAH–LGW service is designed to maximize transit flows and unlock partnership opportunities across regions.
AAX also plans to deepen partnerships with airports, tourism authorities, and industry stakeholders to stimulate new travel corridors while maintaining its core value proposition of affordable long-haul travel supported by operational resilience and commercial performance.
HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa Minister of Finance and National Economy Bahrain
“The agreement with AirAsia X is a strategic decision that reflects Bahrain’s strength as an economic partner and its role as a center for regional and global connectivity. The investment will reinforce Bahrain’s position as a key gateway linking Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, while delivering tangible economic benefits. It will create direct employment across aviation operations and generate wider opportunities across tourism, logistics, hospitality, and related services. Just as importantly, it will support skills development and long-term career pathways for Bahrainis in a global industry that continues to evolve and grow. We are proud to welcome AirAsia X as a member of TeamBahrain.”
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Advisor to AAX noted that, “This is a defining step in the next phase of AAX’s growth. The partnership strengthens the broader aviation ecosystem, enabling Capital A businesses such as cargo and MRO services to scale alongside AAX. Today, Teleport marks an important milestone as its first flight arrives in Bahrain, following its recent $50 million capital raise—a move that will help position the Kingdom as a key aviation and logistics hub in the region. ”
