AirAsia X has announced the launch of a brand-new direct service connecting Kuala Lumpur to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, marking a significant expansion into Central Asia.

Starting October 15, 2025, the new route will operate three times weekly: on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays using the airline’s widebody Airbus A330 aircraft. This move not only strengthens AirAsia X’s growing network but also its accessibility between Southeast Asia and Central Asia.

CEO of AirAsia X, Benyamin Ismail, said the airline is proud to be the first Malaysian low-cost carrier to offer direct flights to Uzbekistan. “Tashkent is a vibrant and historic city with growing interest among Southeast Asian travellers,” he stated. “With this new route, we aim to boost tourism and economic ties between Malaysia and Central Asia.”

The route is expected to support two-way tourism and trade, with demand projected from both Malaysian travellers exploring Central Asia and Uzbek nationals connecting to ASEAN countries. Uzbekistan is also promoting inbound travel with streamlined visa policies and increased regional tourism cooperation.

Introductory fares are available from RM499 (approx. USD 105) one-way for economy seats and RM1,499 for premium flatbeds.

This launch is part of a broader strategic expansion as AirAsia X rebuilds its long-haul operations post-pandemic and taps into underserved markets in Central Asia.