Low-cost airline AirAsia X is set to launch new flight routes connecting London to Bahrain and Kuala Lumpur later this year.
The airline, a budget subsidiary of Malaysian carrier AirAsia, is expanding its routes beyond its home continent as it enters the low-cost travel sector on a global scale.
AirAsia X was due to launch its new flight on Friday, 26 June, to and from Kuala Lumpur, making a stop in Bahrain before finishing or starting the journey in London Gatwick.
However, the airline announced earlier this month that it had made the decision to postpone its inaugural flights until at least August due to the conflict in the Middle East.
Pierre-Hugues Schmit, chief executive at London Gatwick, said: “The arrival of AirAsia X and flights to Kuala Lumpur is fantastic news for London Gatwick passengers.
“The new daily service will provide excellent opportunities to visit the city or onward connectivity across the region – ideal for holidaymakers, businesses and the many British‑Malaysian families who will now have even better options for visiting friends and relatives.”
The flight from Kuala Lumpur to Bahrain will take place daily, departing at 10pm local time. The Bahrain to Kuala Lumpur journey will leave the Middle Eastern country daily just before 9pm.
The entire route, Kuala Lumpur to London Gatwick via Bahrain, will also run every day of the week, but will have varying layover times in Bahrain.
In reverse, London to Kuala Lumpur will also take place daily, leaving the UK capital at 9.55am each day.
AirAsia X said that any passengers affected by the postponement would be offered refunds or have their bookings rescheduled.
The airline cited “ongoing conflicts in and around the region” and market conditions displaying “continued volatility” for delaying its new routes.
"Bahrain continues to play an important role in our long-term growth plans and regional connectivity strategy, and we remain focused on launching services to both Bahrain and London Gatwick when the operating environment is better aligned with our operational and commercial objectives," AirAsia general manager Benyamin Ismail said in a statement on 11 June.
The airline hopes to have the flights running by August at the earliest or in September.
Despite the delay, the UK’s Foreign Office lifted an “all but essential travel” advisory on 18 June for Bahrain, making it easier for people to travel to the country with valid travel insurance.
Read more: Is it safe to travel to Bahrain? Foreign Office issues new travel advice
