AirAsia inaugural flight marks the return of international status to Palembang Airport, boosting South Sumatera tourism and economy

PALEMBANG, July 21, 2025 -- AirAsia Malaysia (flight code AK) has officially resumed international services to Palembang, Indonesia, with its inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur, marking the return of international status to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport. 

The reinstatement of international connectivity presents a valuable opportunity to revitalise local tourism, attract more international visitors, especially from Malaysia and spur growth across supporting sectors such as transport, hospitality, and food and beverages. Indonesia is targeting between 14.6 and 16 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2025, and enhanced regional access by AirAsia will be vital in supporting this goal, especially for secondary cities like Palembang.

H. Herman Deru, Governor of South Sumatera, said: “The activation of International Flight is expected to give positive impacts towards tourism and economic aspects in South Sumatera. In 2024, according to BPS-Statistics Indonesia, Room Occupancy Rate for star hotels in South Sumatera reached 51.85%. We expect more significance increase especially in tourism industry and economic growth in few months ahead along with the activation of International Flight in Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport of Palembang”

Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, said: “Resuming our Palembang route has been a long-standing priority since the pandemic. As a high-demand destination, especially for Balik Kampung travel during Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Aidiladha, we are thrilled to see the airport reopened for international services. This new daily service enhances connectivity between Malaysia and Indonesia, contributing to a total of 205 weekly flights operated by AirAsia between both countries. By reconnecting Palembang to our extensive network, we’re not only linking families and cultures but also creating new pathways for economic exchange, investment, and tourism. We are proud to serve underserved and emerging destinations like Palembang, unlocking greater access and opportunity for communities that have long awaited international connectivity.”

AirAsia Malaysia (AK) now operates flights from Kuala Lumpur to 15 destinations across Indonesia, including Jakarta, Bali (Denpasar), Medan, Yogyakarta, Banda Aceh, Makassar, Padang, Pekanbaru, Balikpapan, Labuan Bajo, Lombok, Palembang, Semarang (commencing 5 September 2025) as well as services from Penang to Jakarta and Medan.

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