AirAsia has launched direct flights from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Komodo International Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia.
This makes the low-cost carrier the first international airline to fly direct to the island, known to be the home of Komodo dragons, which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
The inaugural flight arrived in Labuan Bajo on the morning of September 3, 2024, marking the start of thrice-weekly services.
The new service opens up over 4,000 seats between the two destinations every week.
AirAsia said the route is set to significantly increase visitor numbers and generate substantial economic impact for local communities in both Malaysia and Indonesia.
The carrier’s Fly-Thru service also enhances accessibility, allowing travelers from across Asia and Australia to easily reach the world-famous Komodo National Park and the island of Flores with just one stopover in Kuala Lumpur.
“Indonesia remains one of our most important markets, and we will continue to work closely with AirAsia Indonesia to boost tourism and trade between our two nations,” Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, Managing Director of AirAsia Malaysia, said in a statement.
“Our 28 direct routes connecting Malaysia and Indonesia have flown over 7 million guests, playing a crucial role in driving economic growth, enhancing regional connectivity, and supporting the local tourism sectors. We look forward to expanding our network with plans to explore more direct routes between Malaysia and Indonesia in the future,” Mazputra added.