AirAsia service adjustments to Australia, suspension of Kuala Lumpur-Sydney route

As part of network changes in Australia, AirAsia X (D7) will suspend its flights between Kuala Lumpur and Sydney before year’s end.

The long-haul arm of the Malaysia-based budget airline group will suspend its four-times weekly services between Kuala Lumpur and Sydney from October 25. In a statement, AirAsia cited a combination of increased cost pressures, softer demand, and the need to strategically align the airline’s network and fleet.

“As part of a broader strategy across the AirAsia Group, the airline is fast-tracking its long-term aircraft strategy and accelerating the return of older, less fuel-efficient widebody aircraft, including those used on this route. The suspension of the Sydney service will enable AirAsia to focus its available fleet and resources on destinations where it can operate sustainably and efficiently, while ensuring its network and market demand align.”

AirAsia first launched flights to Sydney in 2012. While citing the reasons for the change, AirAsia X General Manager Benyamin Ismail addressed the impact on customers traveling between Australia and Malaysia.

“We understand how disappointing this will be for our guests, particularly those who have travelled with us over many years, and we sincerely thank them for their understanding and support,” Ismail said. “Australia remains a critically important market for AirAsia. We are increasing our presence in other Australian ports where demand is strong, and we will continue to identify opportunities to keep strengthening our connectivity across the country, when conditions allow.”

While stating its reasons for the suspension of the Sydney route, AirAsia remains open to a return.

“AirAsia acknowledges and thanks Sydney Airport for their support over the past 14 years. This decision was reached in a spirit of transparency and mutual respect, and AirAsia remains open to returning to Sydney should market conditions change, and aircraft strategy allows.”

Service Adjustments to Australia

While suspending its flights on the Kuala Lumpur-Sydney route, the AirAsia Group will increase flights between Perth and Denpasar (Bali), and from Kuala Lumpur to both Perth and Melbourne.

From December 2026, services on the Perth-Denpasar route will be increased to 35-times weekly, while daily services will return on the Melbourne-Kuala Lumpur route. Flights on the Perth-Kuala Lumpur route will be steadily increased to 14-times weekly.