AirAsia X Relaunches Direct Kuala Lumpur-Busan Route for Travelers

AirAsia X has announced the revival of its direct flights between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and Gimhae International Airport (PUS) in Busan, set to commence on June 17, 2026.

This service reinstates a route previously operated by AirAsia X, marking the airline as the sole Malaysian carrier linking these two vibrant cities.

Scheduled to operate four times a week, Busan becomes the long-haul airline’s 21st destination and its second in South Korea after Seoul. This addition is a significant step in AirAsia X’s goal to strengthen its presence in North Asia, a region recognized as key for future growth.

“We’re excited to bring back this cherished route and proud to be the only Malaysian airline providing direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Busan, a city full of surprises,” stated Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X. “The expansion to Busan complements our existing route to Seoul, enhancing our commitment to penetrate further into South Korea, a crucial area for our growth.”

Timing with Visit Malaysia 2026

The reintroduction of this route harmonizes with Malaysia’s national tourism initiative, Visit Malaysia 2026. This development positions Busan as both a desirable destination for Malaysian travelers and as a source of tourism for visitors coming to Malaysia.

Ismail also highlighted the airline’s anticipation of attracting South Korean tourists while catering to Malaysian travelers eager to explore the coastal city. “We can’t wait to welcome travelers from Busan to Malaysia, especially with Visit Malaysia 2026 on the horizon,” he added.

As South Korea’s second-largest city following Seoul, Busan is renowned for its stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and rich cultural offerings. The city hosts the famous Busan International Film Festival and boasts famous landmarks such as Jagalchi Fish Market and picturesque hillside villages, appealing to both local and international visitors.

Promotional Fares

In celebration of the route’s resumption, AirAsia X is offering promotional fares beginning at RM299 (approximately USD 74) for one-way economy class tickets, while Premium Flatbed tickets start at RM999 (around USD 246). This promotion is valid until January 18, 2026, for travel between June 17 and November 30, 2026.

The airline previously operated flights between Kuala Lumpur and Busan until temporarily halting them due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The return of this route demonstrates AirAsia X’s ongoing strategy to restore prior destinations as part of its network recovery.

With four weekly flights, this service will provide crucial connections for leisure travelers and those visiting friends and relatives, facilitating travel between Malaysia and South Korea’s prominent southeastern hub. The flight frequency accommodates weekend getaways while offering midweek options for business and flexible leisure travelers.

AirAsia X’s long-haul routes are serviced by Airbus A330 aircraft, which feature both economy and Premium Flatbed seating options. This configuration will also be applied to the Busan service, giving travelers a choice between standard economy and a luxurious lie-flat premium experience.