AirAsia X (AAX) has announced a significant milestone with the launch of a direct flight route from Nairobi, Kenya, to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This new route, commencing on November 15, 2024, marks AAX as the first low-cost carrier in Malaysia to offer direct connectivity to Nairobi.
This expansion into East Africa follows the recent recognition of AirAsia as the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline and the Best Low-Cost Airline in Asia for the 15th consecutive year by Skytrax World Airline Awards 2024.
The new route aims to ease travel between Kenya and Malaysia, enhancing trade, tourism, and business opportunities. Additionally, the introduction of this direct flight will include a Fly-Thru connection, linking Kenya to over 130 destinations across Southeast Asia, Northern Asia, Central Asia, and Australia, facilitating greater connectivity and fostering new opportunities for both regions.
Kenyan citizens can enjoy visa-free travel to Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore, with a visa-on-arrival option in Indonesia, making travel even more convenient between Kenya and Southeast Asia. Ekitela Moru, the High Commissioner-Designate of Kenya to Malaysia, expressed enthusiasm for the new Nairobi-Kuala Lumpur route, highlighting its potential to enhance trade, investment, and tourism between the two countries.
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, and Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X, underscored the route’s significance in reaffirming AAX’s commitment to affordable travel and global connectivity. They anticipate an annual passenger load exceeding 156,000 travelers on this route.
AirAsia X is currently offering promotional fares starting from Ksh.18,899 (USD 135) for economy seats and Ksh.69,699 (USD 499) for premium flatbeds. These fares are available for booking through the AirAsia MOVE app until July 14, 2024, for travel between November 15, 2024, and October 8, 2025.
This new route opens up numerous travel possibilities, enabling passengers to explore diverse destinations across Asia and the Pacific, fostering cultural and economic exchanges between Kenya and Malaysia.