KUALA LUMPUR – In a surprising move, AirAsia X has announced the suspension of its direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Nairobi, Kenya, effective September 1, 2025—less than a year after the highly publicized launch of the route.
The airline began operating flights to Nairobi in November 2024, marking its first-ever entry into the African continent. At the time, the route was hailed as a breakthrough in connectivity between Southeast Asia and East Africa, with hopes of boosting tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
Demand Below Expectations
According to AirAsia X, the decision to halt the service is part of a broader network optimization strategy, driven by lower-than-expected demand on the route. The Kuala Lumpur–Nairobi flight was operating four times per week and was the only direct air connection between Malaysia and Africa.
“We continuously evaluate the performance of our routes. Unfortunately, current demand levels do not justify the continuation of this service,” the airline said in a statement.
Support for Affected Passengers
To minimize disruption, AirAsia X has outlined several options for passengers with bookings beyond the cut-off date. These include full refunds, credit accounts, or free flight changes for travel up to August 31, 2025. The airline has begun contacting affected customers to assist with alternative arrangements.
Strategic Refocus
Industry analysts say the suspension underscores the challenges airlines face when expanding into emerging markets, particularly in a post-pandemic aviation landscape still grappling with volatile demand and rising operating costs.
While disappointing for many travelers and trade stakeholders, the airline emphasized that the move does not rule out a future return to Africa.
“We remain open to resuming operations to Nairobi or other African destinations when market conditions become more favorable,” AirAsia X added.
For now, the airline is expected to refocus its efforts on more established and high-demand routes across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.