Fly KL-London From RM199 as AirAsia X launches a new Kuala Lumpur–Bahrain–London service, with Bahrain set to act as the airline’s first global hub.
What is new in the KL–BAH–LGW route?
AirAsia X will run a two‑sector service from Kuala Lumpur to Bahrain and onward to London Gatwick. Moreover, the Bahrain to London leg will be sold as a separate flight under fifth freedom rights. Consequently, travellers can choose the full through‑journey or the stand‑alone Gulf–UK sector.
Launch fares and booking window
To mark the launch, the airline has released limited all‑in one‑way fares.
- Kuala Lumpur to Bahrain from RM99.
- Kuala Lumpur to London via Bahrain from RM199.
- After the first batch, fares start from RM299 and RM399 on both sectors.
- Premium Flatbed from RM2,999 one way on either sector.
Bookings are open now. The booking window ends on 22 February 2026. The travel period runs from 26 June to 30 November 2026. These promotional fares include the passenger service charge, regulatory charges, fuel surcharges and other fees. Seats are limited, so book early. Standard terms and conditions apply.
Why Bahrain, and why this matters?
Bahrain sits between ASEAN and Europe. Therefore, it works well as a mid‑corridor hub. The stop allows AirAsia X to split a long journey into two efficient legs. It also allows the airline to serve Bahrain–London directly, which adds choice for Gulf residents. In turn, the hub supports partnerships, better schedules and smoother connections.
Fleet, cabins and add‑ons
The route will use the Airbus A330. Economy offers sharp pricing and optional extras. Premium Flatbed suits those who want a lie‑flat rest on the longer sector. You can add seats, meals and baggage in one go. This keeps the headline fare low, yet it still gives flexibility. For comfort, consider an aisle on Bahrain to London. Also, pre‑order meals if timing matters to you.
Network reach from Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is the main gateway for the AirAsia group. It connects to about 95 destinations across 23 countries in Asia and Oceania. Consequently, travellers from Australia, Indonesia and Vietnam can build one‑stop or two‑stop trips to London via Bahrain. This helps students, VFR traffic, SMEs and leisure groups. Furthermore, the pattern makes side trips within ASEAN easy to add.
Cargo, logistics and wider gains
The plan also supports cargo. As more passenger flights operate, more bellyhold space becomes available. Therefore, cross‑border e‑commerce can move faster between Asia, the Middle East and Europe. This improves aircraft economics. In turn, it supports steady schedules for passengers.
Local impact in Bahrain
The hub brings more than seats. It supports jobs, skills and spend in tourism, hospitality and logistics. Moreover, the new visibility places Bahrain on more travel search maps. Over time, this should attract events, tours and trade links. As a result, the ecosystem grows on both the passenger and cargo sides.
Key facts at a glance
- Route: Kuala Lumpur–Bahrain–London Gatwick.
- Start date: 26 June 2026.
- Fifth freedom: Bahrain–London sold on its own.
- Aircraft: Airbus A330.
- Cabins: Economy and Premium Flatbed.
- Launch fares: RM99 to Bahrain, RM199 to London, one way, all in.
- Subsequent fares: From RM299 and RM399.
- Premium Flatbed: From RM2,999 one way.
- Book by: 22 February 2026.
- Travel window: 26 June to 30 November 2026.
Planning tips for smoother trips
First, pick dates that avoid peak weekends. Second, check connection times in Bahrain, and allow some buffer. Third, consider Premium Flatbed on the longer leg for rest. Fourth, add bags and meals at booking to lock prices. Finally, arrive early at the airport during promo periods, since queues can build.
