AirAsia X, the Malaysian low-cost carrier, is returning to the UK after a 14-year absence, launching a new route from London-Gatwick to Kuala Lumpur via Bahrain starting August 27, 2026. The airline originally operated flights from London-Stansted in 2009 and later from Gatwick in 2011, but withdrew from the UK market in 2012 due to unprofitable routes.
Route Details and Schedule
The service will operate four times a week from August 27, becoming daily from November 2, 2026. Flights will use an Airbus A330-300 with capacity for 377 passengers. The journey includes a stopover in Bahrain to reduce operational costs. Kuala Lumpur to Gatwick flights depart at 10:00 pm, stop in Bahrain for 1 hour 45 minutes, and arrive at 6:25 am the next day. Gatwick to Kuala Lumpur flights depart at 9:25 am, with a 2-hour stop in Bahrain, arriving at 9:25 am the next day, totaling approximately 16.5 hours.
Pricing and Booking
Fares start from £551 return for November dates, including a small personal item and carry bag but no checked luggage. Passengers can also book the route terminating in Bahrain. The airline's return was initially planned for June but was delayed due to conflict in the Middle East. Pierre-Hugues Schmit, CEO of London-Gatwick, stated: "The arrival of AirAsia X and flights to Kuala Lumpur is fantastic news for London Gatwick passengers. The new daily service will provide excellent opportunities to visit the city or onward connectivity across the region – ideal for holidaymakers, businesses and the many British‑Malaysian families who will now have even better options for visiting friends and relatives."
Comparison with Other Airlines
Direct flights to Kuala Lumpur are offered by British Airways from London-Heathrow daily and Malaysia Airlines twice daily, though these are typically more expensive. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital, features attractions like the Petronas Twin Towers, Merdeka Square with diverse architecture, and Batu Caves with Hindu temples and a towering statue.
