AirAsia X to Resume Europe Flights with Kuala Lumpur–Istanbul

AirAsia X will return to Europe in November 2025 after more than 13 years, launching nonstop flights between Kuala Lumpur and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport on Nov. 17. The route will operate four times weekly using Airbus A330-300 aircraft, according to OAG data.

The carrier last served Europe in March 2012, when it ended London and Paris routes due to high operating costs, EU emissions charges, and UK Air Passenger Duty. Its return aligns with the group’s plan to expand long-haul services, including future North America routes.

In July, parent company Capital A confirmed an order for 50 Airbus A321XLRs with options for 20 more. CEO Tony Fernandes called it part of the airline’s “transformative journey” to become the first global low-cost network carrier, connecting beyond Southeast Asia and expanding affordable long-haul travel.

AirAsia X will compete with Turkish Airlines, which currently operates 18 weekly flights between Istanbul Airport and Kuala Lumpur, offering about 11,700 two-way seats. Turkish is presently the only carrier linking Malaysia and Turkey.

The Istanbul launch follows AirAsia X’s planned entry into Uzbekistan with a three-weekly Kuala Lumpur–Tashkent service from Oct. 15. However, the airline will suspend Nairobi service in September due to low demand.

AirAsia X operates 18 A330-300s, with orders for 14 A330-900s and 20 A321neos. The new Europe service marks a significant step in its post-pandemic recovery and long-haul network rebuilding strategy.

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