AirAsia strengthens southern hub with new Johor Bahru-Kunming route

AirAsia Malaysia (flight code AK) today announced the launch of its latest direct route connecting Johor Bahru and Kunming, China, marking a key milestone in the airline’s ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen its domestic hubs beyond Kuala Lumpur.

November 11, 2025 -- Driving Malaysia’s regional growth beyond Kuala Lumpur through enhanced international connectivity
AirAsia Malaysia (flight code AK) today announced the launch of its latest direct route connecting Johor Bahru and Kunming, China, marking a key milestone in the airline’s ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen its domestic hubs beyond Kuala Lumpur.

As the only low-cost carrier (LCC) in Malaysia to operate commercial flights for the Johor Bahru-Kunming route, AirAsia continues to dominate in affordable air connectivity between Malaysia and China, reinforcing its position as a leading LCC bridging the nations. The new service opens fresh opportunities for trade, tourism and cultural exchange between Johor and the Yunnan province, supporting the airline’s broader agenda for regional growth.

Commencing 14 December 2025, AirAsia Malaysia will operate three flights weekly between Johor Bahru and Kunming, also known as the ‘Spring City’ for its pleasant year-round climate. Complementing the airline’s 14 weekly flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kunming, the new service strengthens AirAsia’s presence in the China market and makes it easier for travellers from Johor and neighbouring Singapore to fly direct to Kunming. This new route underscores the airline’s strategic focus to elevate Johor Bahru as a key southern hub, complementing its main base in Kuala Lumpur and boosting connectivity from other emerging gateways across Malaysia.

Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia said: “We are not just growing our network, we are redefining Malaysia’s connectivity within the region to the world. The launch of this new Johor Bahru-Kunming route marks our commitment to expanding beyond Kuala Lumpur and strengthening key regional hubs across the country. By linking Johor Bahru directly to Kunming, we are opening new opportunities for trade, tourism and cultural exchange, turning connectivity into an engine of economic growth at both ends. With the mutual visa-free initiatives between Malaysia and China, it is now easier than ever for more people to explore, experience and connect across borders. This is AirAsia’s commitment in action to make global connectivity accessible, affordable and inclusive for all.”

Travellers from Johor Bahru can now experience Kunming’s rich culture, scenic landscapes and mild climate with ease, while visitors from China gain convenient access to southern Peninsular Malaysia, home to vibrant cities, natural attractions and cross-border leisure experiences. The Johor Bahru-Kunming service marks another step forward in AirAsia’s mission to grow its network and strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional aviation hub.

To commemorate the launch of this brand new route, AirAsia is offering special promotional fares for flights from Johor Bahru to Kunming starting from just RM469* all-in one way whereas flights from Kunming to Johor Bahru are also available from CNY678* all-in one way.

All flights are available for booking on the AirAsia MOVE app and airasia.com, starting from today onwards until 23 November 2025, for travel between 14 December 2025 to 28 March 2026.

Flight Schedule between Johor Bahru (JHB) and Kunming (KMG):

Known as the ‘Spring City’, Kunming welcomes travellers from Johor Bahru with its pleasant year-round climate, breathtaking natural landscapes and vibrant local culture, a perfect gateway to explore the beauty of Yunnan province in southwestern China. In return, travellers from Kunming can look forward to discovering Johor Bahru’s dynamic city attractions, rich heritage and proximity to some of southern Malaysia’s most exciting leisure destinations. This new connection opens exciting opportunities for two-way tourism and cultural exchange between both nations.

From 14 December 2025 onwards, AirAsia Group will operate flights to 13 destinations in Mainland China from Malaysia, with a total of 21 routes across the region.

*All-in fares are quoted for one-way travel only, including passenger service charge, regulatory service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. Terms and conditions apply.

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