AirAsia X Launches New Winter Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul 2025/26

AirAsia X is set to significantly expand its long-haul international offerings by introducing services between Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Istanbul, Turkey, in the upcoming winter of 2025/26. Starting November 14, 2025, the airline will operate four flights weekly in both directions, utilizing its fleet of 18 Airbus A330-300 widebody aircraft. This route is also aimed at attracting travelers from neighboring Singapore.

This new service represents AirAsia X’s long-awaited return to Europe, as the airline had previously flown to London but discontinued that route prior to the pandemic. According to an official statement, the new connection “opens a vital gateway linking Southeast Asia to Europe via one of the world’s most historically rich and geographically unique destinations.” Istanbul, straddling two continents along the Bosphorus Strait, provides travelers with a unique opportunity to experience a blend of cultures.

Flights will operate from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), a key hub with access to over 117 international and 40 domestic destinations. This setup enhances travel options for passengers from Southeast Asia while providing Istanbul travelers with access to AirAsia’s extensive network of 130 destinations across 14 countries. Covering a distance of 5,180 miles (8,288 km), the journey takes approximately ten hours.

“Istanbul has always been a dream destination for many of our guests, marking another proud milestone in our journey to rebuild stronger than ever,” expressed Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X. “Following our recent expansion into Central Asia, this long-awaited route brings us closer to delivering enhanced connectivity across continents.”

Istanbul, unique for being the only city located on two continents, aligns perfectly with AirAsia X’s mission to connect Asia and beyond through affordable travel. This strategic move not only strengthens the airline’s network but also creates more opportunities for business collaborations and enriching travel experiences. Singaporean travelers can look forward to seamless Fly-Thru connections to this iconic city at a more economical price point.

Additionally, this new route facilitates an affordable Umrah Plus Istanbul package through ikhlas.com, which is part of Capital A’s Islamic lifestyle initiative, allowing Muslim travelers to merge their spiritual journey with a visit to this remarkable city. Thanks to the seamless Fly-Thru services from Kuala Lumpur, travelers from Singapore will enjoy convenient access to Istanbul without the hassle of rechecking luggage, while those from Turkey can explore the diverse offerings of Southeast Asia, including Singapore.

Timings of the New Flights

New AirAsia X flights between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (flight number D7 604) will depart Kuala Lumpur at 09:35 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, arriving in Istanbul at 16:35 on the same day. Return flights (D7 605) will leave Istanbul at 17:20, arriving back in Kuala Lumpur at 08:40 the next morning.

Furthermore, AirAsia, the short-haul sister airline, maintains 11 daily flights each way between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, facilitating quick connections to AirAsia X’s long-haul flights from Malaysia, including the new Istanbul service.

Are you excited about these new travel opportunities connecting Southeast Asia and Europe?