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ISTANBUL, 17 November 2025 - AirAsia X (AAX), the leader in medium-haul low-cost aviation, celebrated another milestone with the launch of its first direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul, marking the airlines long-awaited entry into Turkey and strengthening its growing network in Asia and beyond. Flight D7 604 departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (T2) on 14 November 2025 at 9:35 am and arrived at the Airport Sabiha Gokcen International (SAW) at 4:05pm local time, marks a historic moment for AAX as it connects Malaysia with one of the most culturally and economically dynamic cities in the world. This launch marks AAXs first service to Turkey, at the same time reaffirming the airlines commitment to expanding its network outside of Asia and offering affordable long-haul travel options for all groups. Datuk Kamarudin Meranun, Executive Chairman of Capital A said: The launch of our first service to Istanbul is a long-awaited bold step in AirAsias long-haul growth strategy X. Turkiye represents a strong and dynamic market with great potential for leisure and business travel. This new route not only enhances our network connectivity between Southeast Asia and Eurasia, but also strengthens our position as a major player in low-cost long-haul travel. As demand for international travel to various key destinations in Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East continues to grow, we remain focused on developing strategic markets that strengthen our global footprint and provide more value to our guests, partners and stakeholders across the region. said: Istanbul is one of the destinations in high demand by our guests where it is rich in history, culture and trade. With this new service, we are not just launching a route, but rather an important link between Southeast Asia and Europe. Turkiye welcomed more than 62 million international visitors last year and we are excited to make it more accessible and affordable for Malaysians and travelers across the Asean region, especially with AirAsias Fly-Thru service which covers more than 130 destinations. This first flight also comes at the right time in line with the preparations for the Year of Visit Malaysia 2026 in support of the countrys efforts to improve the tourism sector and regional connectivity, as well as serving as an important step in rebuilding our network and strengthening our operations in low-cost long-haul travel by connecting more people, more often and more destinations. His Excellency Emir Salim Yuksel, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Malaysia said: Today, we welcome another new air connection between two Asian continents thanks to the efforts of AirAsia X. I believe that this connection between Kuala Lumpur and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport will not only contribute to the development of Turkiye-Malaysia relations, but also expand the perspective of global connectivity.Istanbul is famous for its halal tourism sector, a combination of heritage and modern elements. Straddling two continents on the majestic Bosphorus Strait, the city is known for its iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, lively markets, urban lifestyle and a thriving culinary scene. AAX currently flies to Istanbul with four weekly flights offering over 150,000 seats per year with fares starting from RM749* or USD205* one-way inclusive. Promotional fares can now be booked from today until 30 November 2025, for travel periods between now and 14 September 2026 via airasia.com and the AirAsia MOVE app. Flight Schedule between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Istanbul (SAW):
*All-inclusive fares are for one-way travel and include passenger service charges, regulatory charges, fuel surcharges and other related fees. Subject to other terms and conditions.**END**
Airlines, Bahasa Malaysia, Malaysia, NewsVichitraNovember 17, 2025
