AirAsia X revives Gatwick-Kuala Lumpur route

A route from Gatwick to Kuala Lumpur is being revived by budget long-haul carrier AirAsia X after a gap of more than a decade.

Daily flights are scheduled to start on June 26 to the Malaysian capital via Bahrain.

The service connects Gatwick with Kuala Lumpur for the first time since 2012.

The airline will deploy an Airbus A330 on the route with onward conections to  destinations including Jakarta, Manila, Tokyo and Melbourne.

The addition means that Gatwick’s long-haul network will rise to 57 routes, including 15 across Asia.

AirAsia X chief executive Bo Lingam said: “Our return to London marks a significant milestone for AirAsia X and we’re excited to commence our operations at London Gatwick this June.

“This new daily route will enable UK travellers to seamlessly and affordably connect to Bahrain, Asean and beyond through our extensive Fly-Thru connectivity spanning over 130 destinations worldwide. 

“The service will also play an important role in strengthening travel, trade and people-to-people ties between the UK, Bahrain, Malaysia and the wider Asia-Pacific region and we look forward to welcoming guests on board as we continue to expand our long-haul network.”

Airport chief executive Pierre-Hugues Schmit said: “The arrival of AirAsia X and flights to Kuala Lumpur is fantastic news for London Gatwick passengers. 

“The new daily service will provide excellent opportunities to visit the city or onward connectivity across the region – ideal for holidaymakers, businesses and the many British‑Malaysian families who will now have even better options for visiting friends and relatives.

“AirAsia X is the latest airline to choose to fly from London Gatwick, ahead of what will be a fantastic summer for our passengers.

“Our ever-expanding list of carriers and destinations, combined with our unwavering commitment to excellent passenger service, means London Gatwick really is the airport for everyone, whatever your journey.”