AirAsia announces new direct route from Kuala Lumpur to Darwin

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AirAsia announces new direct route from Kuala Lumpur to Darwin

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By Sky Industry News

Mar 18, 2025

AirAsia Malaysia is set to enhance its Australian network with the introduction of a direct service from Kuala Lumpur to Darwin, launching on June 27, 2025. This milestone marks the return of a low-cost carrier connecting the Northern Territory to key Asian destinations, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to international connectivity.

For the first time since Jetstar Asia’s departure in 2022, Territorians will once again have access to an affordable direct link to Asia. This service will provide seamless travel to in-demand destinations, including Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and India.

Operating four times weekly, the new route is expected to benefit both leisure and business travelers, strengthening tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the Northern Territory and Asia. It will also support local tourism operators, accommodation providers, and the hospitality sector by increasing inbound visitor spending.

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Boosting Economic and Business Ties

Minister for Trade, Business, and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill OAM welcomed the announcement:

"This milestone reconnects Darwin with Kuala Lumpur improving air accessiblity and affordability for Territorians whilst making it easier to invest visit and do business in the Territory. "

Cahill added that government remains focused on working with airline partners to ensure strong commercial outcomes for all flights:

"AirAsia’s commitment highlights our bright economic future reinforcing Darwin’s role as a key gateway to Asia," she said.

AirAsia’s Expanding Presence in Australia

AirAsia continues to grow its footprint in Australia. Since March 2024, AirAsia Malaysia has expanded its services by launching Kuala Lumpur–Perth flights to complement its sister airline AirAsia X (D7) in response to strong demand. The broader AirAsia Group including Indonesia AirAsia now serves Cairns and Perth while AirAsia X connects Melbourne Sydney and Perth. With the addition of Darwin the airline will serve five Australian cities by mid-2025.

Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra CEO of AirAsia Malaysia highlighted Darwin’s unique appeal for Southeast Asian travelers:

"We are excited introduce Darwin as our newest Australian destination providing an affordable gateway Asia for Territorians whilst opening new tourism opportunities Malaysians wider network," he said.

A Game-Changer for Darwin’s Tourism Connectivity

Rob Porter Executive General Manager Airports Airport Development Group hailed new service major win Territory:

"We thrilled welcome Airasia Malaysia re-establishing essential low-cost connection Top End Asia," he said.

With Airasia Malaysia arrival Darwin Territorians can look forward more accessible budget-friendly travel options businesses tourism operators stand benefit increased international engagement