After completing a comprehensive restructuring process, AirAsia X (AAX) will resume flights between Kuala Lumpur and Sydney on Feb. 14.
“Following our travel downtime over the last two years, and the recent completion of our restructuring process, we are thrilled to be able to relaunch and commence our gradual return to the skies,” said the CEO of AirAsia X Benyamin Ismail.
Since 2020, no regular AirAsia flights have served Sydney save from charter and repatriation flights. Australia is the first market the airline is resuming operations to.
“As we anticipate the gradual reopening of international borders around the world in 2022, we are delighted to return to Australia first, as one of our most popular markets.”
The first flights will initially depart Kuala Lumpur on Mondays, returning to Sydney on Tuesdays.
Flight D7 228 is due to depart Kuala Lumpur at 19:25 and travel 4,088 miles (6,580 kilometers) south to Sydney, arriving at 06:30 the next morning.
The return leg, flight D7 229, is scheduled to leave Sydney at 08:30 and arrive back in Kuala Lumpur at 14:15 the same day.
The airline has stated that redemptions for travelers affected by the restructuring will be prioritized. AAX customers can reschedule their flights and use their credit account to do so.
Passengers can select fares from RM1,399 (AUD 469) one-way all-inclusive (check-in baggage, one meal, and one drink) on Economy or Premium Flatbed from RM3,999 (AUD 1,340).
From Sydney to Kuala Lumpur, fares start from AUD399 and AUD1,299 one-way all-inclusive respectively.
AirAsia X used to carry over 1 million passengers between the two nations before the pandemic.
However, a quick rebound is unlikely since both countries only allow limited “categories” of travelers to fly.
For instance, only fully vaccinated Australian citizens, permanent residents, international students, and eligible visa holders can freely travel to and from Australia.
On the other way, only Malaysian citizens and foreigners with valid Malaysian long-term visit passes are permitted to enter the country.