AirAsia X (AAX) is returning to the European market with a brand-new route between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW). The service launches 14 November 2025, operated 4x weekly on Airbus A330-300 aircraft—opening affordable connections between Southeast Asia and Europe via Istanbul.

Key facts at a glance

• Launch date: 14 November 2025 (Northern Winter 2025/26)
• Frequency: 4 flights per week (scheduled Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun)
• Aircraft: Airbus A330-300 (2-class incl. Premium Flatbed)
• Airport in Istanbul: SAW – Sabiha Gökçen (Asian side of the city)
• Bookings & promo: introductory fares from RM 499 one-way in economy and RM 3,999 one-way in Premium Flatbed; on sale now until 20 August 2025 for travel 14 Nov 2025–14 Sep 2026.
• Fly-Thru & through-checked bags: AAX offers Fly-Thru connections via KUL to destinations across Asia & Australia, with checked baggage transferred to your final destination. 7 kg cabin bag included in the base fare.

Provisional timetable (local times)

D7 604 – KUL 09:35 → SAW 16:05
D7 605 – SAW 17:20 → KUL 08:40+1
(Operates 4x weekly; flight numbers/times per filed schedules.)

Why this matters for European travellers

• More low-cost choices to Southeast Asia: Istanbul becomes a sharp-priced entry point to Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and beyond via AAX’s Fly-Thru network.
• Competitive pressure on the corridor: Turkish Airlines already flies IST–KUL and is increasing capacity; AirAsia X adds an alternative via SAW, which could stimulate fares.
• AAX’s European comeback: The airline previously served London and Paris before ceasing European ops in 2012—this Istanbul launch marks its return to Europe.

Example prices spotted

• Official launch promo: from RM 499 one-way (economy) and RM 3,999 (Premium Flatbed), limited seats; sales window through 20 August 2025.
• Indicative one-way fares seen by regional media: from €172–€175 on select dates (direction-dependent). Availability varies.

Connections & booking tips

• Getting to SAW: Istanbul has two airports—SAW (Asian side) and IST (European side). For the AAX flight you must arrive/depart SAW. Consider separate low-cost hops to SAW (or transfer across the city if you land at IST with ample time).
• Build a long-haul on a budget: Look for Fly-Thru itineraries via Kuala Lumpur to Bali, Bangkok, Phuket, Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Taipei, Osaka and more—bags checked through and protected connections.
• Watch the extras: Base fares include 7 kg cabin bag; add checked baggage, seat selection and meals during booking for the best total price.

FAQ

When do flights start?

14 November 2025.

How often do they operate?

Four times weekly (currently scheduled Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun).

Which Istanbul airport?

Sabiha Gökçen (SAW)

What aircraft?

Airbus A330-300 with Economy and Premium Flatbed.

Are tickets already on sale?

Yes—launch promo on sale now for a limited window ending 20 August 2025 (travel 14 Nov 2025–14 Sep 2026)