AirAsia X Unveils Direct Flights From Kuala Lumpur To Busan In June 2026 Connecting Malaysia And South Korea With Four Weekly Services For Leisure And Tourism

AirAsia X has unveiled its plans to launch direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Busan in June 2026, connecting Malaysia and South Korea with four weekly services aimed at both leisure and tourism travelers. This new route will enhance direct air connectivity between the two countries, making travel more accessible for tourists, business visitors, and those visiting friends and family. With Malaysia gearing up for the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, the resumption of this service is expected to drive inbound tourism, while offering South Korean travelers an easy gateway to explore Malaysia’s diverse attractions. This move highlights AirAsia X’s commitment to expanding its long-haul network in North Asia and supporting bilateral tourism growth.

AirAsia X has announced the return of its direct flights between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and Gimhae International Airport (PUS) in Busan, South Korea, set to begin on 17 June 2026. This move marks a significant step in the airline’s long-haul expansion strategy, as it responds to sustained travel demand between Southeast Asia and North Asia while also supporting Malaysia’s inbound tourism targets for Visit Malaysia 2026.

The Kuala Lumpur–Busan route will operate four times a week, making it the airline’s 21st destination worldwide. Busan becomes AirAsia X’s second South Korean destination, joining Seoul, and represents the carrier’s continued push to expand its footprint in North Asia.

Strategic Expansion in North Asia

The resumption of direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Busan reaffirms AirAsia X’s focus on high-demand routes. The airline’s decision to return to the South Korean coastal city follows a careful assessment of the region’s strong tourism potential, bolstered by the anticipated surge in visitors to Malaysia during the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.

Busan, known for its vibrant culture, scenic beaches, and bustling port, has been attracting increasing attention as a travel destination. This direct air link will facilitate easier travel for both leisure travelers and those visiting friends and family, further integrating Malaysia and South Korea in terms of travel connectivity.

AirAsia X’s expansion into North Asia highlights the growing importance of the region within the airline’s broader strategy. With the airline’s focus on rebuilding and expanding routes with proven demand, the Kuala Lumpur–Busan service is expected to bolster the airline’s presence in the highly competitive long-haul low-cost market.

AirAsia X’s Fleet and Route Operations

The route will be served by AirAsia X’s Airbus A330-300 aircraft, configured in a two-class layout with both Economy and Premium Flatbed cabins. This service will provide a versatile option for travelers, catering to those seeking budget-friendly options as well as those looking for more premium offerings, with the Premium Flatbed seats providing a comfortable experience for long-haul travel.

The four-times-weekly service will be strategically timed to accommodate the busy travel periods and cater to the demand for both leisure tourism and the growing trend of traveling to visit family and friends. By offering a range of ticket classes and maintaining competitive pricing, AirAsia X aims to capture a wide range of travelers from both Malaysia and South Korea.

As the only Malaysian carrier providing direct flights to Busan, AirAsia X is in a unique position to strengthen its relationship with this important regional hub. The resumption of this service further establishes the airline as a key player in long-haul connectivity between Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia.

The Tourism Impact: Connecting Malaysia and Busan

Busan is South Korea’s second-largest city and a key destination for international travelers. The city is renowned for its beaches, mountains, and cultural landmarks such as the Jagalchi Fish Market and Gamcheon Culture Village. Its annual Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) attracts thousands of visitors from around the world, further cementing the city’s status as a global tourism destination.

For Malaysia, the resumption of direct flights to Busan is a key element of the country’s tourism strategy. With South Korea being an important source market for Malaysia, the direct flight route is expected to enhance inbound tourism flows, particularly as Malaysia gears up for the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. The ease of direct air connectivity will encourage more South Koreans to explore Malaysia, contributing to the growth of both leisure and business travel.

Busan’s appeal as a coastal city with rich cultural experiences aligns well with Malaysia’s tourism offerings. The country’s diverse attractions, from bustling urban areas to tranquil natural retreats, complement Busan’s mix of modern and traditional experiences, making it an ideal destination for South Korean tourists looking to explore Southeast Asia.

Competitive Pricing and Promotional Fares

In celebration of the route’s relaunch, AirAsia X is offering limited-time promotional fares to attract early bookings. Economy Class fares are available from as low as RM299 one-way, while Premium Flatbed seats are offered at RM999 one-way. These promotional fares are available for booking until 18 January 2026, with travel valid between 17 June and 30 November 2026.

The competitive pricing strategy aligns with AirAsia X’s broader goal of stimulating early demand while positioning itself as a leading option for budget-conscious travelers. By offering affordable long-haul travel, AirAsia X aims to strengthen its position in the low-cost, long-haul market, where demand for affordable options is steadily increasing.

The airline’s promotional fares are designed to attract both first-time travelers and those loyal to the brand, ensuring a strong customer base when the route reopens. The airline expects that the combination of attractive fares and direct connectivity will help achieve high load factors, making the route a key success for the airline.

Busan: A City of Culture and Nature

Busan’s diverse offerings make it a perfect destination for a short getaway or a longer exploration. For first-time visitors, the city’s combination of coastal beauty, cultural landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods makes it a top choice for a memorable trip.

Day 1: Coastal Highlights and Cultural Villages

A guided city tour is highly recommended for first-time visitors, especially since many of Busan’s top attractions are spread out across the city. A typical tour will take travelers to the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, located by the sea, offering serene views of the coastline. Other highlights include the Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory and the Gamcheon Culture Village, a colorful hillside neighborhood with vibrant street art and picturesque views.

Day 2: Beaches and Urban Exploration

On the second day, visitors can explore the famous Gwangalli Beach, which offers sweeping views of the Gwangan Bridge, especially stunning at sunset. Nearby, the Millak Live Fish Sashimi Market offers a unique opportunity to sample fresh seafood, an integral part of Busan’s culinary scene.

Day 3: Local Markets and Historical Sites

The final day in Busan can be spent exploring the Nampo District, known for its shopping streets and street food. Visitors can also visit the Samgwangsa Temple, known for its striking lantern displays during festivals, and enjoy panoramic views from the Busan Tower.

For those with more time, additional sites such as the Taejongdae Park and the Songdo Skywalk offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

Beyond Three Days: Extending the Stay

Busan is a city that rewards extended exploration. For travelers with additional time, the city’s mix of urban attractions and natural beauty offers something for everyone. Whether it’s hiking the rugged trails at Taejongdae Park, relaxing at Spa Land Centum City, or enjoying a coastal cable car ride, there are plenty of experiences to fill an extended stay.

The city’s rich history, combined with its modern amenities, makes it a fascinating place to visit. As South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions make it a prime destination for both short visits and longer stays.

The resumption of direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Busan marks an important milestone for AirAsia X as it strengthens its long-haul network and contributes to tourism growth in both Malaysia and South Korea. By offering affordable fares, direct connectivity, and a convenient schedule, AirAsia X is well-positioned to serve the increasing travel demand between Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia.

AirAsia X will launch direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Busan in June 2026, with four weekly services aimed at boosting leisure and tourism between Malaysia and South Korea. This move strengthens air connectivity and supports Malaysia’s inbound tourism strategy for Visit Malaysia 2026.

With the added benefit of being part of Malaysia’s Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, the Kuala Lumpur–Busan route is set to become a vital part of the airline’s network, contributing to both outbound and inbound travel. As AirAsia X continues to expand its footprint in North Asia, this route serves as a strong foundation for further growth in the region.

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