AirAsia Malaysia has announced the launch of its new direct route connecting Kuala Lumpur to Darwin, marking a major milestone in the airline’s efforts to expand its presence in Australia. Starting on 27 June 2025, the new service will operate four times a week, offering travelers a convenient and affordable option to explore the Northern Territory’s vibrant capital. This strategic move underscores AirAsia’s commitment to enhancing international connectivity while boosting tourism and trade between Malaysia and Australia. The new route is expected to serve around 200,000 passengers annually, strengthening ties between the two regions.
The launch event at Darwin Airport was attended by key industry leaders, including Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, and Hon. Robyn Cahill, Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations of the Northern Territory. Speaking at the event, Captain Fareh Mazputra expressed enthusiasm about the airline’s expansion into Darwin, highlighting the opportunities it brings for both leisure and business travelers. He noted that the direct service provides a crucial link for Australians in the Northern Territory who wish to travel to Malaysia and beyond while also making Darwin more accessible to international visitors.
Minister Cahill welcomed AirAsia’s new route, emphasizing its potential economic and cultural benefits for the Northern Territory. She remarked that improving air connectivity with Kuala Lumpur would facilitate investment, business opportunities, and tourism growth in the region. The move aligns with the Northern Territory’s long-term aviation strategy, which seeks to attract more international airlines and increase travel accessibility for residents and visitors alike.
AirAsia Malaysia’s expansion into Darwin complements the airline’s growing Australian network, which already includes flights to Perth, served by both AirAsia Malaysia and its sister airline, AirAsia X. The new Darwin route adds to AirAsia’s presence in Australia, reinforcing its position as a leading low-cost carrier offering competitive fares and enhanced travel options. The airline’s ongoing investment in Australia demonstrates its confidence in the market’s potential for growth and its commitment to making international travel more accessible to a broader audience.
To celebrate the launch, AirAsia is offering special promotional fares for early bookings. One-way tickets from Kuala Lumpur to Darwin start at RM299, while flights from Darwin to Kuala Lumpur begin at AUD189. These all-inclusive fares cover passenger service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. Travelers can book their flights via the AirAsia website or the AirAsia MOVE app for travel between 27 June and 25 October 2025. The airline expects strong demand for the route, driven by increasing interest from travelers looking for budget-friendly options to explore new destinations.
Industry leaders and tourism officials have welcomed the introduction of the new route, citing its positive impact on the region’s tourism and business sectors. Rob Porter, Executive General Manager for Airport Development Group, expressed excitement about the partnership with AirAsia, emphasizing the growing demand for low-cost travel options between Darwin and key Asian destinations. He highlighted that the new service would provide more choices for travelers while supporting local businesses and the tourism industry in the Northern Territory.
Suzana Bishop, Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Tourism & Hospitality in the Northern Territory Government, also shared her optimism about the new connection. She noted that the increased accessibility to Darwin would encourage international visitors to explore the region’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and unique attractions. With its stunning natural wonders, rich Indigenous history, and thriving local arts scene, Darwin is expected to benefit from the influx of travelers seeking new experiences.
As AirAsia Malaysia continues to expand its international network, the Kuala Lumpur-Darwin route represents an important step in the airline’s strategy to strengthen its global reach. By offering budget-friendly fares and improved connectivity, AirAsia is positioning itself as a key player in the competitive international travel market. The airline remains committed to providing affordable and reliable travel options while contributing to the economic development of the destinations it serves. With strong partnerships, a growing route network, and a dedication to customer satisfaction, AirAsia Malaysia is poised for continued success in the aviation industry.
