Travel between the Top End and one of South-East Asia’s largest transport hubs is set to become much easier. Photo: Mirko Vitali.
Malaysian airline AirAsia has launched a non-stop service between Darwin and Kuala Lumpur.
The new route will provide almost 100,000 annual seats between the two destinations.
The first flight is scheduled for 27 June and there will be four weekly return services on AirAsia’s Airbus A321 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
With the addition of the service, AirAsia Group operates seven weekly flights from Darwin, the other major route being Darwin to Denpasar.
The Darwin-Kuala Lumpur service is the fourth direct route for the Territory announced this year. The others are:
- AirAsia: Three flights a week between Darwin and Bali.
- Airnorth: Three flights a week between Alice Springs and Cairns.
- Jetstar: Three flights a week between Darwin and the Gold Coast.
For the first time in a decade, the new AirAsia service provides easy access for Territorians to a major aviation hub in the South-East Asian region, allowing for both easier travel to Malaysia itself and routes from Kuala Lumpur onwards.
“This will not only improve air accessibility and affordability for Territorians but will make it easier to invest, visit and do business in the Territory,” Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill said.
“AirAsia is consistently recognised as among the world’s best low-cost airlines, so their decision to invest in Darwin reinforces our bright economic future.
“Air connectivity is a priority for the Territory, so we will now be focused on working with all airline partners to ensure all flights see strong commercial outcomes.
“We are sending a clear message that we are open for business and that we are well placed to advance trade, investment and strategic partnerships in South-East Asia.”
The excitement over the new route was shared by both parties.
AirAsia CEO Captain Fareh Mazputra said: “We are excited to introduce Darwin as our newest Australian destination, providing an affordable gateway to Asia for Territorians while opening up new tourism opportunities for Malaysians and our wider network.
”Darwin is a hidden gem that offers adventure, stunning natural landscapes, and rich Indigenous culture – making it a perfect addition to our expanding portfolio of Australian destinations.
“With our seamless Fly-Thru services via Kuala Lumpur, travellers from across Asia, including Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, China, Cambodia, and South Korea, can now easily access Darwin and experience the wonders of Australia’s Top End.”
