WNAM REPORT: Collaboration between Uzbekistan and Malaysia is steadily strengthening, reaching a new level of practical interaction. An important role in this process is played by the development of direct air connectivity, which contributes to the intensification of tourism and business contacts.
In 2025, the Central Asian market demonstrated encouraging growth compared to the previous period. The launch made a significant contribution to the positive dynamics of new direct flights. In particular, on October 16, 2025, AirAsia launched the Tashkent – Kuala Lumpur route with a frequency of three times a week. Later, on December 15, 2025, Batik Air Malaysia launched the Tashkent – Langkawi route with a frequency of once a week. The implementation of these routes has significantly improved transport accessibility and strengthened Malaysia’s position as an attractive tourist destination in the region.
A key participant in the expansion of air connectivity is AirAsia X, a Malaysian low-cost carrier based at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The airline specializes in medium- and long-haul operations across the Asia-Pacific region and the Middle East, primarily operating the Airbus A330-300.
Founded in 2007 as a subsidiary of AirAsia, the company today offers passengers two classes of service – Premium Flatbed and Economy Class. The carrier’s route network covers around 150 destinations, including cities in Australia, Japan, South Korea, China, and India.
AirAsia X’s business model is focused on the long-haul low-cost carrier format, with flights exceeding 4 hours. In 2024, the airline demonstrated a high load factor of 83 percent, indicating steady demand for its services.
In 2026, the carrier continues to expand its route network, including plans to resume flights to London via Bahrain. In addition, at the beginning of the year, the Capital A completed the consolidation of its aviation business, placing it under the management of AirAsia X and unifying all AirAsia-branded airlines into a single structure.
Experts note that the development of direct air connectivity between Uzbekistan and Malaysia will contribute to the growth of mutual tourist flows, the strengthening of business ties, and the expansion of economic cooperation between the two countries.
