AirAsia Malaysia is set to enhance its Australian network with the introduction of a direct service from Kuala Lumpur to Darwin, launching on 27 June 2025. This milestone marks the return of a low-cost carrier connecting the Northern Territory to key Asian destinations, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to international connectivity.

For the first time since Jetstar Asia’s departure in 2022, Territorians will once again have access to an affordable direct link to Asia. This service will provide seamless travel to in-demand destinations, including Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and India

Operating four times weekly, the new route is expected to benefit both leisure and business travelers, strengthening tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the Northern Territory and Asia. It will also support local tourism operators, accommodation providers, and the hospitality sector by increasing inbound visitor spending.

Boosting Economic and Business Ties

Minister for Trade, Business, and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill OAM, welcomed the announcement, emphasizing its significance for the region:

"This milestone reconnects Darwin with Kuala Lumpur, improving air accessibility and affordability for Territorians while making it easier to invest, visit, and do business in the Territory. AirAsia’s commitment highlights our bright economic future and reinforces Darwin’s role as a key gateway to Asia."

She added that the government remains focused on working with airline partners to ensure strong commercial outcomes for all flights, sending a clear message that the Territory is open for business and ready to strengthen trade, investment, and strategic partnerships in Southeast Asia.

AirAsia’s Expanding Presence in Australia

AirAsia continues to grow its footprint in Australia. Since March 2024, AirAsia Malaysia has expanded its services, launching Kuala Lumpur–Perth flights to complement its sister airline, AirAsia X (D7), in response to strong demand. The broader AirAsia Group, including Indonesia AirAsia, now serves Cairns and Perth, while AirAsia X connects Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth. With the addition of Darwin, the airline will serve five Australian cities by mid-2025.

Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, highlighted Darwin’s unique appeal for Southeast Asian travelers:

"We are excited to introduce Darwin as our newest Australian destination, providing an affordable gateway to Asia for Territorians while opening new tourism opportunities for Malaysians and our wider network. Darwin is a hidden gem, offering adventure, stunning natural landscapes, and rich Indigenous culture—making it a perfect addition to our growing list of Australian destinations."

He also noted that AirAsia’s seamless Fly-Thru services via Kuala Lumpur would allow travelers from Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, China, Cambodia, and South Korea easy access to Darwin and Australia’s Top End.

A Game-Changer for Darwin’s Tourism and Connectivity

Rob Porter, Executive General Manager of Airports for Airport Development Group, hailed the new service as a major win for the Territory:

"We are thrilled to welcome AirAsia Malaysia to Darwin, re-establishing an essential low-cost connection between the Top End and Asia. This route directly responds to demand from our community, who have long called for more affordable travel options to key Asian destinations."

He emphasized that the new connection would not only provide greater choice for travelers but also strengthen inbound tourism, supporting local businesses and cementing Darwin’s status as an international gateway. The airport looks forward to working closely with AirAsia to grow the service and explore future expansion opportunities.

With AirAsia Malaysia’s arrival in Darwin, Territorians can look forward to more accessible and budget-friendly travel options, while businesses and tourism operators stand to benefit from increased international engagement.