AirAsia X Delays Bahrain–London Route Launch by at Least Two Months Citing Middle East Conflict and Fuel Costs
The Malaysian carrier cited Middle East conflict and fuel volatility for postponing the Kuala Lumpur-Bahrain-Gatwick service originally set for June. Passengers will receive refunds or new bookings.
al-monitor.comAirAsia X postponed the launch of its planned Kuala Lumpur to Bahrain and onward to London Gatwick route until at least August due to the conflict in the Middle East. The airline announced the delay on Thursday, June 11, 2026. It had initially planned to begin the service in June.
AirAsia X now expects the route to start in August or September, subject to market conditions, the carrier said in a statement. Affected passengers will be offered refunds or rescheduled bookings. The airline said it remains committed to opening a hub in Bahrain but needed to take a measured approach regarding the route.
"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.
AirAsia has been hard hit by volatile jet fuel prices. The carrier posted a quarterly net loss earlier in 2026 after it was forced to cut 10% of flights and introduce a surcharge of about 20% on fuel.
