AirAsia X to start Central Asia flights, as other low-cost carriers grow networks
By
Alfred Chua24 November 2023
Medium-haul, low-cost carrier AirAsia X will begin flying to Almaty in Kazakhstan from March 2024, marking its first move into the Central Asia market.
The airline will begin four-weekly flights between Kuala Lumpur and Almaty from 14 March, becoming the first Malaysian carrier to link the two countries together.
AirAsia X hails the move as a “significant milestone” in its recovery from the pandemic, which saw it undergo business restructuring.
Airline chief Benyamin Ismail says: “As our first foray into Central Asia, the expansion into the Kazakh market is a strong testament to our vision and determination to explore new territories as well as resuming services to our most popular destinations post pandemic.”
Ismail adds: “The move to introduce direct flights to Almaty is expected to foster significant trade, commerce and education interchange, considering Kazakhstan’s status as the wealthiest country in Central Asia.”
AirAsia X is the second carrier in recent weeks to expand into Central Asia.
Compatriot Batik Air Malaysia announced plans to fly to Tashkent in Uzbekistan from December. The weekly flights are operated using Airbus A330 aircraft.
https://www.flightglobal.com/networ...ow-cost-carriers-grow-networks/155968.article