Get ready for a game-changer in affordable travel: AirAsia X is bringing back flights between Europe and Kuala Lumpur, and it’s a big deal. But here’s where it gets controversial—while the airline promises ultra-low fares, the actual prices might not be as jaw-dropping as you’d expect. Let’s dive in.
Published on 15/02/2026 - 10:13 GMT+1, the announcement reveals that AirAsia X, a long-haul low-cost carrier, is relaunching its route between London and Kuala Lumpur this summer. Starting 26 June 2026, travelers can fly from Gatwick Airport to Kuala Lumpur International Airport with a stopover in Bahrain. And this is the part most people miss—the layover in Bahrain will last between 90 minutes to two hours, making the total journey around 16.5 hours. Is this a small price to pay for budget travel, or a deal-breaker for time-conscious flyers? You decide.
AirAsia X initially teased fares as low as €85 one-way for bookings made before 22 February (for travel between 26 June and 30 November). However, our research found the cheapest available ticket during this period was €185 one-way from London to Kuala Lumpur. Is this still a bargain, or is the hype overstated? Let us know in the comments.
This move comes on the heels of AirAsia X’s mid-November launch of a direct route between Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen International Airport and Kuala Lumpur, with a flight time of just 10.5 hours. But why the focus on Bahrain now? Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A (AirAsia’s parent company), calls it a “strategic hub” for connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. “This is a defining step in the next phase of AAX’s growth,” he said. “Bahrain allows us to create a scalable platform for future expansion while strengthening regional ties.”
But let’s rewind—why did AirAsia X abandon Europe in the first place? Back in 2012, the airline scrapped direct flights from London and Paris Orly to Kuala Lumpur, blaming soaring jet fuel prices, higher taxes, and dwindling demand. Was this a strategic retreat, or a misstep? Fernandes had hinted as early as 2014 about reviving the London route, suggesting the airline’s European ambitions were never truly shelved.
With Bahrain as its new hub, AirAsia X is positioning itself for growth, but the question remains: Which European destinations will be next? The airline currently serves 150 cities across Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Uzbekistan, and beyond. Will this expansion live up to the hype, or is it just another budget airline promise? Share your thoughts below.
One thing’s for sure—affordable long-haul travel is back on the map, and AirAsia X is leading the charge. But as fares and routes evolve, so will the debate. Are you ready to trade a few extra hours in transit for significant savings? The choice is yours.
