AirAsia X has announced its latest venture into Africa with the introduction of direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Nairobi, set to commence on 15 November 2024. This new route signifies a significant expansion move for the low-cost carrier, enhancing its presence in the long-haul market.
Following the acquisition of traffic rights from the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) earlier in April, AirAsia X plans to operate up to seven weekly flights starting in October. Initially, the service will offer four weekly flights between Kuala Lumpur and Nairobi, operated by an Airbus A330-300.
Flight D7101 will depart Kuala Lumpur at 19:00, with the return leg, D7102, leaving Nairobi at 00:30, providing travellers with convenient connectivity between the two vibrant cities in just over nine hours.
In addition to Nairobi, AirAsia X has outlined ambitious plans to expand its footprint across Africa, targeting routes to Cape Town and Cairo. Tony Fernandes, CEO of AirAsia X, emphasized the airline’s strategic growth trajectory, stating, “With our expanding fleet of wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft, including the introduction of the A330neo, we are focused on broadening our medium to long-haul network.”
Fernandes further outlined AirAsia X’s global ambitions, revealing plans to extend services to various destinations in Europe, East Coast North America via Europe, and West Coast North America via Japan.
“Our robust orderbook of 647 aircraft underscores our commitment to expanding our reach and providing affordable air travel options across multiple continents,” he added.
For travellers and trade partners alike, AirAsia X’s new route to Nairobi represents not only enhanced connectivity between Asia and Africa but also opens up new avenues for tourism, business, and cultural exchange between Malaysia and Kenya.
