AirAsia X affirmed its commitment to launching a new hub in Bahrain despite ongoing US and Israel attacks on Iran. The low-cost long-haul carrier stated on April 6 that it remains on track to open the hub in June 2026, with initial flights from Kuala Lumpur to London Gatwick via Bahrain set to begin on June 26.
The hub, AirAsia X’s first outside Asia, stems from a letter of intent signed in November 2025 with Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications. It positions Bahrain as a gateway connecting Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Australia. Services will operate using Airbus A330-300 aircraft, as the model lacks the range for nonstop Kuala Lumpur-London flights.
Chief Executive Bo Lingam addressed concerns over the Middle East conflict at a press conference, stating the Bahrain service would proceed if hostilities end before June. He offered no firm commitment for a protracted war, noting anything is possible, including alternate routes like via Turkey. Co-founder Tony Fernandes highlighted rising jet fuel prices, now up to US$300 per barrel in some markets, prompting 20 percent fuel surcharge increases and 31 to 40 percent fare hikes where needed to cover costs.