AirAsia X Connects Central and Southeast Asia with New Flight Route

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A press conference was held in Tashkent to mark the launch of AirAsia X’s (AAX) first direct flight on the Tashkent–Kuala Lumpur route, representing a new milestone in aviation and tourism cooperation between Uzbekistan and Malaysia.

Participants included Benjamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X; Datuk Kamarudin bin Meranun, co-founder of AirAsia and Executive Chairman of Capital A Group; and Ilham Tua bin Ilias, Ambassador of Malaysia to Uzbekistan.

A New Stage in Central and Southeast Asian Connectivity

Opening the event, Benjamin Ismail emphasized that the flight launch is the result of AirAsia X’s long-term strategy to expand routes between Asia and Central Asia:

“AirAsia X has always aimed to connect regions, making travel accessible and bringing the world closer. We are proud that citizens of Uzbekistan can now fly directly to Kuala Lumpur, opening access to over 130 destinations across Asia and beyond. This is not just a route — it is a new chapter in the history of cooperation between our countries.”

The CEO also noted that the launch is especially symbolic ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, when Malaysia expects millions of international tourists.

Expanding Tourism and Cultural Exchange

Datuk Kamarudin bin Meranun described the route as a symbol of mutual understanding and openness between the two countries:

“This route is not just a line on a map. It is a bridge connecting two peoples united by spirit, values, and traditions of hospitality. We see tremendous potential in Uzbekistan — a country with a rich culture and a rapidly growing economy.”

Ambassadors Highlight the Route’s Significance

In his remarks, Ilham Tua bin Ilias, Malaysian Ambassador to Uzbekistan, stressed that the new flight will serve as a foundation for strengthening ties between business communities, youth, and cultural institutions of both countries:

“Malaysia and Uzbekistan have always been connected by mutual respect and a spirit of brotherhood. Now this connection has taken a tangible form — a direct air route that will foster closer ties between our peoples and promote tourism, education, and trade.”

Outlook

AirAsia X will operate three flights per week between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur, offering over 82,000 seats annually. One-way fares start at US$199, with promotional rates available from 13 to 26 October 2025, via airasia.com and the AirAsia MOVE app.

Experts note that the direct flight creates unique opportunities for expanding cooperation between the countries, not only in tourism but also in investment, logistics, and education, reinforcing Uzbekistan’s role as a key aviation hub in Central Asia.