Welcome aboard the journey of AirAsia X’s expansion into Central Asia! In a significant move, AirAsia X (AAX) has inaugurated its maiden direct flight to Almaty, Kazakhstan.
The airline becomes the first Southeast Asian operator to support direct services Kazakhstan’s largest metropolis.
We look into the historic significance of this route and the promise it holds for regional connectivity and travel opportunities.
The Historic Inauguration
AirAsia X’s direct flight to the vibrant Central Asian city of Almaty, Kazakhstan, marks a historic milestone. It positions the airline as the pioneer Southeast Asian carrier to establish a direct air link to Almaty.
This move furthers AAX’s goal of expanding its network strategically and providing access to emerging markets.
The route caters to the growing market demand for affordable travel between Southeast Asia and Central Asia. In so doing, it also fosters cultural and economic exchanges between the major regions.
Celebrations at Kuala Lumpur International Airport
The launch ceremony at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Terminal 2) was nothing short of celebratory.
All 283 guests were treated to a festive send-off, graced by esteemed dignitaries. These included YB Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia, and Mr. Bulat Sugurbayev, Kazakhstan Ambassador to Malaysia.
Minister of Transport, YB Tuan Loke Siew Fook, lauded the inaugural flight as a significant achievement in Malaysian aviation. He emphasized its role in enhancing connectivity and strengthening bilateral ties.
“It symbolises our dedication to becoming a global aviation hub and strengthens cultural and economic ties between Kazakhstan and Malaysia,” he said.
“Congratulations to AirAsia X on this milestone, and as we look to the future, we anticipate a more pronounced recovery in passenger traffic for 2024, with passenger numbers ranging from 93.9 million to 107.1 million.”
Projections for the future anticipate a robust recovery in passenger traffic, reflecting the optimistic outlook for AAX’s expansion endeavors.
Endorsing Economic and Diplomatic Ties
Chairman of Capital A, Datuk Kamarudin Meranun, was upbeat about the potential economic benefits stemming from AAX’s foray into Almaty.
With bilateral trade reaching tens of millions of USD between the two countries, the potential for further collaboration in various sectors including tourism is vast,” he stated.
The new route is actively positioned to boost business opportunities and stimulate growth across various sectors, as trade between Malaysia and Kazakhstan flourishes.
AirAsia X CEO, Benyamin Ismail, highlighted the strategic importance of the Almaty route in bolstering regional connectivity.
AAX’s impressive near-capacity inaugural flight signifies its readiness to bridge cultural divides and connect communities. It will offer travelers access to 130 destinations from Kuala Lumpur.
Promotional Fares and Travel Opportunities
AAX’s four weekly flights to Almaty offer over 95,000 seats annually, with competitive fares starting from RM599 or USD169 all-in* one-way.
Promotional fares available for booking until March 21, 2024, promise travelers an affordable gateway to explore the charms of Almaty and beyond.
AirAsia X is a sister company of AirAsia, specifically catering to medium and long-haul flights.
While AirAsia focuses on shorter regional routes, AirAsia X offers flights to destinations further afield, complementing AirAsia’s network.
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