Connectivity between the Northern Territory and Asia will increase with a new AirAsia Malaysia non-stop service between Darwin and Kuala Lumpur launched today.
The introduction of AirAsia Malaysia to the Northern Territory aviation market will see almost 100,000 seats annually between Darwin and Kuala Lumpur.
The first flight will be on 27 June and there will be four weekly return services on AirAsia's Airbus A321 aircraft on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
New international services between Darwin and Kuala Lumpur, and Darwin and Denpasar, will see AirAsia Group operate seven weekly flights from the Top End capital.
This marks the fourth new direct route announcement for the Territory since the beginning of this year following:
Indonesia AirAsia 3-weekly service between Darwin and Bali.Airnorth 3-weekly service between Alice Springs and Cairns.Jetstar 3-weekly service between Darwin and Gold Coast.
For the first time in nearly 10 years, the new direct service to Malaysia will provide a low-cost option for Territorians to travel to a major Southeast Asian aviation hub.
Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill welcomed the important milestone for AirAsia to reconnect Darwin with Kuala Lumpur.
"This will not only improve air accessibility and affordability for Territorians, but will make it easier to invest, visit and do business in the Territory," she said.
"AirAsia is consistently recognised as among the world's best low-cost airlines, so their decision to invest in Darwin reinforces our bright economic future.
"Air connectivity is a priority for the Territory, so we will now be focused on working with all airline partners to ensure all flights see strong commercial outcomes.
"We are sending a clear message that we are open for business and that we are well placed to advance trade, investment and strategic partnerships in Southeast Asia."
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby said: "The non-stop flight between Kuala Lumpur and Darwin provides a low-cost flight option for travellers coming from Asia, opening up the Northern Territory to new markets and providing an affordable option for Territorians looking to travel to Asia for work or leisure."
"Airlines scheduling more flight routes to the Territory will play a key role as we rebuild our economy and make us an attractive place to visit, live, work and invest," she said.
Dato' Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, said: "We are excited to introduce Darwin as our newest Australian destination, providing an affordable gateway to Asia for Territorians while opening up new tourism opportunities for Malaysians and our wider network. Darwin is a hidden gem that offers adventure, stunning natural landscapes, and rich Indigenous culture - making it a perfect addition to our expanding portfolio of Australian destinations."
"With our seamless Fly-Thru services via Kuala Lumpur, travellers from across Asia, including Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, China, Cambodia, and South Korea, can now easily access Darwin and experience the wonders of Australia's Top End," he said.
Rob Porter, Executive General Manager, Airports for Airport Development Group said: "We are thrilled to welcome AirAsia Malaysia to Darwin, re-establishing a much-needed 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 destinations like Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and India."
"Beyond offering greater choice for Territorians, this new link will also strengthen inbound tourism, supporting local businesses and cementing Darwin's position as a key international gateway. We look forward to working closely with AirAsia to grow this service and explore future opportunities for expansion," said Mr Porter.
The venture demonstrates the strong partnerships between the Northern Territory Government, Airport Development Group and AirAsia, and is supported under the Territory Aviation Attraction Scheme.
AirAsia Malaysia is offering special promotional launch fares between Darwin to Kuala Lumpur starting from $189AUD for a limited time and availability.
