Malaysian low-cost, long-haul carrier AirAsia X has officially commenced operations in Pakistan, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan-Malaysia travel ties. The airline announced the launch of direct flights between Karachi and Kuala Lumpur starting May 30, 2025. The news was shared at a high-profile inaugural event held at a local hotel in Karachi, attended by senior dignitaries including Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, Sindh Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah, and Malaysian Consul General Herman Hardinata Ahmed.
Four Weekly Flights with Introductory Offers
AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail revealed that the airline will operate four weekly round-trip flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The route will be serviced using AirAsia X’s long-haul fleet, with the introductory one-way ticket price set at Rs55,800. A 20% discount is also being offered for early bookings.
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Bookings for the new route have already opened, with the airline anticipating strong interest from both leisure and business travelers. Ismail emphasized that the Karachi-Kuala Lumpur route is expected to benefit over 100,000 passengers annually, offering a convenient, affordable, and quality travel option.
Enhancing Trade, Tourism, and Cultural Exchange
Governor Kamran Tessori praised the initiative, calling it a “step towards strengthening bilateral relations” between the two nations. “This new connectivity will not only enhance people-to-people ties but also open doors for business and tourism,” he said. Sindh Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah echoed these sentiments, highlighting the potential for increased economic and cultural cooperation.
Tourism-wise, Karachi, with a population of 20 million, offers a range of historical attractions such as the mausoleum of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and the colonial-era Empress Market, making it an appealing destination for international travelers.
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AirAsia X, a subsidiary of the AirAsia Group, began as FlyAsian Express (FAX) in 2006, serving regional routes under Malaysia’s Rural Air Service. In 2007, it rebranded to its current form and transitioned into a long-haul, low-cost airline. Its first international flight connected Kuala Lumpur to Gold Coast, Australia, later that same year.