AirAsia X Eyes Expansion: Unveils Plans for New Long-Haul Routes to Europe

AirAsia X, a budget airline based in Malaysia, recently commenced operations on its Istanbul route and has intentions to further extend its long-haul services to Europe in the coming year, according to CEO Benyamin Ismail. This move signifies the airline’s return to the European market, following a period of corporate restructuring in response to operational challenges caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Currently, AirAsia X provides four flights weekly, connecting Istanbul and Kuala Lumpur. This service offers over 150,000 seats per year; however, the company has plans to increase this capacity by offering daily flights between the two cities.

Expanding its airline’s reach beyond Asia, AirAsia X aims to bridge Asian and European cities through its Istanbul hub. The company also has plans to introduce additional long-haul routes to Europe.

CEO, Benyamin Ismail, indicated that the company aims to add “at least one or two cities in one year”. However, he did not disclose the exact European destinations that the company is exploring.

Questions & Answers

What are AirAsia X’s plans for expansion in Europe?
AirAsia X intends to extend its long-haul services to Europe in the coming year, providing a bridge between Asian and European cities through its Istanbul hub.

How often does AirAsia X currently operate flights between Istanbul and Kuala Lumpur?
Presently, AirAsia X operates four flights weekly between Istanbul and Kuala Lumpur.

What is the company’s strategy to increase its flight capacity?
AirAsia X plans to increase flight capacity by offering daily flights between Istanbul and Kuala Lumpur, as opposed to the current four flights per week.