AirAsia X (AAX) Berhad has announced the launch of a new international route connecting Kuala Lumpur to Bahrain and onwards to London Gatwick, marking a significant step in the airline’s global expansion. The announcement was made at a press conference in Bahrain on 12 February 2026, with the new service set to commence on 26 June 2026.

The new route includes the Bahrain-London sector, making it AAX’s second Fifth-Freedom route, allowing the airline to extend its reach beyond Asia into the global budget travel market. This move positions Bahrain as AAX’s first global hub, serving as a crucial gateway between Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The airline aims to leverage Bahrain’s strategic location and robust aviation infrastructure to enhance transit and partnership opportunities.

Tony Fernandes, Group CEO of Capital A and Co-founder of AirAsia, stated: “This new route not only strengthens our network but also underscores our commitment to providing affordable travel options to a broader audience.”

The establishment of Bahrain as a strategic hub is expected to boost tourism and economic ties between the regions, offering passengers more travel options and convenience. The KUL-BAH-LGW service will attract both leisure and business travellers, further solidifying AirAsia X’s presence in the international aviation market.