AirAsia X, the long-haul, low-cost affiliate of AirAsia, has announced it will suspend its Kuala Lumpur–Nairobi route effective September 1, 2025, citing lower-than-expected demand.
The airline, which launched the direct service less than six months ago in November 2024, operates four weekly flights on the route, offering over 156,000 seats annually. One-way fares started at KSh25,685 ($199).
In a statement, AirAsia X said the route suspension is part of its ongoing network optimisation efforts.
“Effective 01 September 2025, AirAsia X (flight code D7) will suspend flights between Kuala Lumpur and Nairobi as part of its network optimisation initiative due to lower than expected travel demand,” the airline stated.
Passengers who have already booked flights scheduled beyond the suspension date will be eligible for several options, including a full refund, a credit account, or a one-time flight change free of charge—provided the new travel date is on or before August 31, 2025.
“To assist affected guests, the SROs (Service Recovery Options) include a full refund, a Credit Account, or a free-of-charge flight change for travel before 31 August 2025. Guests may also chat with Bo to access these options,” the airline added.
The decision marks a swift exit from the Kenyan market, despite initial optimism around the Nairobi-Kuala Lumpur link which promised to enhance trade and tourism between Kenya and Malaysia.
