AirAsia Malaysia is set to expand its Australian network with the launch of a new direct service from Kuala Lumpur to Darwin, commencing 27 June 2025. This milestone not only strengthens the airline’s commitment to international connectivity but also marks the return of a low-cost carrier linking the Northern Territory to top holiday destinations across Asia.

For the first time since Jetstar Asia exited in 2022, Territorians will once again have access to an affordable, direct service to Asia, unlocking seamless travel to some of the most in-demand destinations, including Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Srilanka and India.

Operating four times weekly, this new route will offer greater accessibility for both leisure and business travellers, supporting tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the Northern Territory and Asia. The service will also provide a crucial link for international visitors, boosting inbound tourism and increasing expenditure that will benefit local tourism operators, accommodation providers, and the hospitality sector.

Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations,  Robyn Cahill OAM   commented: “We welcome this important milestone for AirAsia to reconnect Darwin with the global capital city of 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.

“AirAsia is consistently recognised as amongst 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.”

AirAsia continues to grow its presence in Australia. Since March 2024, AirAsia Malaysia has been steadily expanding in the Australian market, launching Kuala Lumpur–Perth flights to support its sister airline, AirAsia X due to strong demand. The airline Group including Indonesia AirAsia now serves Cairns and Perth whereas AirAsia X flies to Melbourne, Sydney and Perth - which as a whole serve in four Australian cities with Darwin set to become the fifth from 22 March from Bali and 27 June from Malaysia 2025.

Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, highlighted Darwin’s appeal as a unique destination for Southeast Asian travellers: "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."

Rob Porter, Executive General Manager, Airports for Airport Development Group  welcomed AirAsia Malaysia and said this service is a significant win for the Territory: "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."

Celebratory Fares Now on Sale!

To celebrate this new service, AirAsia is offering special launch fares, with flights between Kuala Lumpur and Darwin starting from just AUD$189 *

Some of the extensive Fly-thru destinations we have on offer include:

Fares are  available for booking until 30 March 2025, for travel between 27 June and 25 October 2025. Book now on  airasia.com or via the AirAsia MOVE app to secure your next adventure.

Flight Schedule between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Darwin (DRW):

All timings are in a 24-hour format based on a local time

*All-in fares are quoted for one-way travel only, including passenger service charge, regulatory service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. T&C apply.