SEPANG: AirAsia X Bhd has marked its foray into Central Asia by becoming the first airline in Southeast Asia to fly direct to Almaty, Kazakhstan from Kuala Lumpur.
The airline's chief executive officer Benyamin Ismail said the strategic move proves AirAsia X's commitment to expand its global network and reconnect travellers to various destinations.
"We're confident that our entry into the Kazakh market will not only enhance tourism between both countries but also foster closer ties regionally as we connect the people in the largest country in Central Asia to 130 destinations from Kuala Lumpur," he said.
AirAsia X's first flight to Almaty from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 2 (T2) today saw over 90 per cent load factor with a total of 282 passengers onboard.
The passengers were sent off in a festive ceremony at the airport by Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Capital A Bhd executive chairman Datuk Kamarudin Meranun, Benyamin, AirAsia X chairman Datuk Fam Lee Ee, Kazakhstan ambassador to Malaysia Bulat Sugurbayev and other dignitaries and industry partners.
Kamarudin said AirAsia X's flights to Almaty will present an opportunity for business between Malaysia and Kazakhstan as well as facilitating trade and fostering growth in the two nations.
Loke said AirAsia X's inaugural flight marks a significant milestone in Malaysian aviation as the new route enhances connectivity and enhances Malaysia's commitment to a world-class airport system.
"It symbolises our dedication to becoming a global aviation hub and strengthens cultural and economic ties between Kazakhstan and Malaysia," he said.
Loke added that Malaysia is expecting a better recovery in passenger traffic for 2024 with the numbers ranging from 93.9 million to 107.1 million.
AirAsia X is flying four times weekly to Almaty from KLIA T2 with promotional fares from RM599 all-in one-way.
The fares offer are available for booking starting March 15-21 for travel period between now and June 17 2025.
