AirAsia X Berhad has officially designated Bahrain as its primary strategic hub for the Middle East, a move set to transform the kingdom into a critical bridge connecting Asia, Europe, and Australia.
The airline also announced a new international route linking Kuala Lumpur to Bahrain and onward to London's Gatwick airport, with the service set to commence in June 2026.
The announcement marks a major leap in the airline’s medium-haul expansion, positioning Bahrain International Airport (BIA) as the linchpin of a global network designed to streamline travel, trade, and tourism across four continents.
The expansion follows a landmark letter of intent signed in November 2025 between Capital A Berhad, the owner of AirAsia, and the Transportation and Telecommunications Ministry during the Gateway Gulf Investment Forum in Bahrain.
“Bahrain’s strategic location and robust aviation infrastructure make it central to AAX’s plans,” the airline stated, noting that the kingdom was chosen for its ability to facilitate "greater flows of travellers and trade" beyond traditional Southeast Asian routes.
Sources told the GDN that the move cements Bahrain’s status as a regional logistics powerhouse, leveraging its "open skies" policy to attract major international carriers looking for a foothold between East and West.
In a statement today, Finance and National Economy Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa said, “This agreement with AirAsia X is a strategic decision that reflects Bahrain’s strength as an economic partner, and its role as a centre for regional and global connectivity...We are proud to welcome AirAsia X as a member of TeamBahrain.”
Full report in tomorrow's GDN
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