AirAsia X (AAX) has announced two new international routes linking Kuala Lumpur with Bahrain and onward to London Gatwick, marking a milestone in the airline’s global expansion strategy. The services are scheduled to commence on 26 June 2026 and position Bahrain as AAX’s first global hub outside its home market in Asia.
The Bahrain–London sector will become AAX’s second Fifth Freedom route, supporting the airline’s expansion beyond Asia into the global low-cost long-haul market. The KUL–BAH–LGW service is designed to support transit connectivity and partnership opportunities, leveraging Bahrain’s geographic location and aviation infrastructure to link Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
Network expansion and hub strategy
The new services establish Bahrain as a key gateway in AAX’s multi-sector network strategy. The airline stated the route supports connectivity between Asia, the Middle East and Europe, while providing a platform for future network growth.
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Advisor to AAX, said the development represents the next phase of AAX’s growth strategy. He noted that the Bahrain hub enables stronger connectivity between Asia, the Middle East and Europe, while supporting broader aviation ecosystem growth, including cargo and MRO activity within Capital A’s business portfolio.
He also confirmed that Teleport’s first flight arrival in Bahrain follows its recent USD50 million capital raise, supporting the Kingdom’s positioning as a regional aviation and logistics hub.
Economic and aviation ecosystem impact
H.E. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy of Bahrain, said the agreement supports Bahrain’s position as a regional and global connectivity hub. He stated the initiative is expected to create employment opportunities across aviation operations and generate wider economic activity across tourism, logistics, hospitality and related sectors, while supporting skills development and long-term career pathways.
Fleet and network positioning
AirAsia X continues to develop its network of more than 150 destinations globally, combining low-cost operating efficiency with strategic partnerships and hub-based connectivity.
Kuala Lumpur remains AAX’s primary gateway, connecting travellers to 95 destinations across 23 Asian countries with nearly 2,000 weekly flights, including services to Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Australia and Japan.
The KUL–BAH–LGW route will be operated using AAX’s Airbus A330 fleet and is intended to expand travel access between Australia, Indonesia, Vietnam and other markets to Bahrain and London.
SOURCE: AIRASIA X IMAGE: WIKI COMMONS
