AirAsia Launches Darwin Route
AirAsia Malaysia has announced its expansion into Australia with a new route from Kuala Lumpur to Darwin, Australia. This move reinforces its commitment to enhancing international connectivity from Malaysia.
Starting on June 27, 2025, travellers will have more affordable options to explore Australia’s Northern Territory capital, Darwin, with four flights available each week. Darwin is the ideal gateway to stunning landscapes, exciting adventures, and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunsets at Mindil Beach, encounter wildlife at Crocosaurus Cove, and discover the wonders of Kakadu National Park, a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its natural beauty and deep Indigenous culture. The city promises unforgettable experiences for all travelers.
AirAsia Malaysia is constantly expanding in the Australian markets. Since March 2024, the airline has been flying to Australia for the first time, between Kuala Lumpur and Perth, supporting sister airline AirAsia X (flight code D7) which also flies that route, due to strong demand. AirAsia Group (Malaysia & Indonesia) operates in Perth and Cairns whereas AirAsia X flies to Melbourne, Sydney and Perth. As a whole, the airline serves in four Australian cities and with Darwin joining the network from 22 March from Bali and June from Kuala Lumpur, it will become its fifth destination in the country.
In the past year, the airline has transported over 600,000 passengers between both countries. The newly launched Kuala Lumpur-Darwin route further emphasizes AirAsia’s commitment to enhancing tourism between Malaysia and Australia. This milestone represents a significant advancement in the airline’s international expansion, promoting tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill OAM commented: “We welcome this important milestone for AirAsia to reconnect Darwin with the global capital city of Kuala Lumpur. This will not only improve air accessibility and affordability for Territorians, but will make it easier to invest, visit and do business in the Territory.
“AirAsia is consistently recognised as amongst the world’s best low-cost airlines, so their decision to invest in Darwin reinforces our bright economic future. Air connectivity is a priority for the Territory, so we will now be focused on working with all airline partners to ensure all flights see strong commercial outcomes.
“We are sending a clear message that we are open for business and that we are well placed to advance trade, investment and strategic partnerships in Southeast Asia.”
Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia said: “We are thrilled to launch our very first flight to Darwin, creating greater opportunities for both leisure and business travellers to explore one of Australia’s most vibrant and unique destinations. At the same time, we are opening a new gateway to Asia and beyond for ‘Territorians’ in the Top End of Australia.
“As adventure travel continues to grow in popularity, we see Darwin as a hidden gem for Malaysians and travellers across Southeast Asia, offering a distinctive experience beyond the usual tourist hotspots. With our seamless Fly-Thru services via Kuala Lumpur, Darwin is now more accessible than ever for travellers from key markets within our network, including Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, China, Cambodia, South Korea, and beyond.
“Our commitment to enhancing connectivity across our core markets aligns with our goal of providing affordable travel options and making Asia more accessible to everyone. We deeply appreciate the support of our stakeholders, including the government and airport authorities, in strengthening tourism opportunities between both capitals. We look forward to expanding our presence and bringing our world-class services to this beautiful part of Australia.”
Rob Porter, Executive General Manager, Airports for Airport Development Group welcomed AirAsia Malaysia and said this service is a significant win for the Territory: “We are thrilled to welcome AirAsia Malaysia to Darwin, re-establishing a much-needed low-cost connection between the Top End and Asia. This route directly responds to demand from our community, who have long called for more affordable travel options to key destinations like Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and India.
“Beyond offering greater choice for Territorians, this new link will also strengthen inbound tourism, supporting local businesses and cementing Darwin’s position as a key international gateway. We look forward to working closely with AirAsia to grow this service and explore future opportunities for expansion.”
Suzana Bishop, Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Tourism & Hospitality, Northern Territory Government, commented: “We are excited to embrace AirAsia Malaysia as part of Darwin’s growing aviation network, creating more opportunities for international travellers to explore the Top End of Australia.
“AirAsia Malaysia’s inaugural launch into Darwin offers visitors unique opportunities to immerse themselves in the Northern Territory’s iconic landscapes, deep cultural heritage and local experiences. From breathtaking national parks and thrilling wildlife encounters to dark sky stargazing, this new connection unlocks a diverse range of unforgettable experiences for our emerging Asian markets and beyond.”
Leave a comment