AirAsia X Returns to London with Bahrain Stopover

In a significant development for long-haul connectivity, AirAsia X is set to re-enter the UK market on June 26 with a daily service between Kuala Lumpur and London Gatwick via Bahrain . The launch marks the airline’s first UK service since 2012, representing a strategic comeback to the European market following its 2025 resumption of Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen flights .

Industry data reveals the scale of the opportunity UK–Malaysia traffic totalled approximately 492,000 two-way passengers in 2025 , with only 33 percent travelling nonstop . The London-Kuala Lumpur corridor accounted for 61 percent of total demand , highlighting the market’s significant potential . Bahrain is being positioned as a hub linking Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, suggesting a broader strategic play for AirAsia X.