AirAsia X Flights to London Return in 2026
Exciting news for travellers! Starting this summer, exploring Southeast Asia from the UK becomes easier and more affordable. AirAsia X has officially confirmed its highly anticipated return to London, bridging the gap between the British capital and the heart of Malaysia for the first time in over a decade.
AirAsia X London Flight Details
Starting June 26, 2026, AirAsia X will launch a daily service connecting London Gatwick (LGW) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL). This route marks a significant comeback, as the airline last flew to London in 2012.
The journey will be operated by the comfortable Airbus A330 aircraft. To ensure optimal value and efficiency, the flight includes a brief stopover at the airline’s new global hub in Bahrain. This “technical stop” allows travellers to stretch their legs while keeping ticket prices among the most competitive in the market.
Why This is Great for Tourists
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Affordable Adventures: As a leader in low-cost long-haul travel, AirAsia X makes Malaysia and beyond accessible for budget-conscious holidaymakers.
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Gateway to Asia: From Kuala Lumpur, you can seamlessly connect to over 130 destinations, including popular spots like Tokyo, Manila, Jakarta, and Melbourne.
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Gatwick Convenience: Gatwick continues to expand its long-haul network, making it the preferred airport for Londoners and those in the South of England seeking a tropical getaway.
Flight Schedule at a Glance
| Route | Departure (Local Time) | Arrival (Local Time) |
| London (LGW) to Kuala Lumpur | 10:25 AM | 09:55 AM (+1 day) |
| Kuala Lumpur to London (LGW) | 10:00 PM | 07:25 AM (+1 day) |
AirAsia X London Flights History
Originally, AirAsia X flights to London were launched in 2009 and halted in 2012, and then had plans to restart in the summer of 2017. Several factors complicated it, and the flights were then suspended. Below is a quick history of the route.
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2009: AirAsia X begins flying to London Stansted.
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October 2011: The airline moves its London base from Stansted to Gatwick.
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March 31, 2012: The final flight departs London, marking a 14-year absence until the newly announced return.
When flights resume on June 26, 2026, they will once again fly into Gatwick, but with a new strategy—swapping the old non-stop service for a daily flight that includes a stopover in Bahrain.
Conclusion
This is great news for those planning to visit family, travelling for business, or embarking on a bucket-list Malaysian adventure. The return of AirAsia X provides a fantastic new option for your 2026 travel plans. With daily flights and incredible connectivity, the wonders of Asia are now just one booking away.