KUALA LUMPUR- AirAsia X (D7) has announced the launch of its Singapore (SIN) to Istanbul (SAW) flight via Kuala Lumpur (KUL), marking a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion into Europe.
The new service opens an affordable and convenient gateway between Southeast Asia and Türkiye, offering seamless connections for travelers from Singapore (SIN) via Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) through AirAsia Malaysia (AK) Fly-Thru services.
Commencing on 14 November 2025, the route will operate four times weekly, providing passengers with direct access to Istanbul, one of the world’s most iconic transcontinental cities.
This move not only broadens AirAsia X’s network but also strengthens its commitment to offering competitive fares for both leisure and religious travelers.

AirAsia X New Singapore to Istanbul Route
The launch of Kuala Lumpur–Istanbul flights is more than just an addition to AirAsia X’s schedule; it is a strategic step in connecting Asia and Europe via one of the most historically significant and geographically unique cities in the world.
Istanbul straddles two continents, divided by the Bosphorus Strait, offering visitors an extraordinary blend of Eastern and Western cultures.
AirAsia X will operate into Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), located on the Asian side of the city.
SAW is a major hub serving over 117 international destinations and 40 domestic routes, giving travelers from Southeast Asia expanded onward travel opportunities across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
For travelers from Singapore, the experience is streamlined. AirAsia Malaysia operates 11 daily flights between Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), ensuring multiple options for connecting seamlessly to the Istanbul service without the need to recheck baggage.
AirAsia X (D7) operates the following between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW):
Kuala Lumpur – Istanbul | D7 604 | 09:35 | 16:05 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun |
Istanbul – Kuala Lumpur | D7 605 | 17:20 | 08:40+1 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun |
AirAsia Malaysia (AK) provides daily connectivity between Singapore (SIN) and Kuala Lumpur (KUL):
Singapore – Kuala Lumpur | AK 722 | 23:30 | 00:25 | Daily |
Kuala Lumpur – Singapore | AK 706 | 12:10 | 13:10 | Daily |
All timings use a 24-hour format based on local time, ensuring clarity for travelers planning their journeys.
This schedule allows for smooth transit from Singapore to Istanbul, with minimal layover times in Kuala Lumpur.

Affordable Long-Haul Travel
The new route not only benefits leisure travellers but also supports religious tourism. Through ikhlas.com, the Islamic lifestyle platform by Capital A, AirAsia X will offer an Umrah Plus Istanbul package.
This unique travel option allows Muslim passengers to combine a spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia with a cultural exploration of Istanbul, making it a compelling package for many Southeast Asian travellers.
AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail highlighted Istanbul’s significance, describing it as “a dream destination for many of our guests” and emphasizing its role as a cultural bridge between Asia and Europe.
The launch follows recent network expansions into Central Asia and aligns with AirAsia X’s vision of delivering longer connectivity across continents at affordable prices.

Special Promotional Fares
To celebrate the new route, AirAsia X is offering introductory all-in-one way fares starting from SGD 299 for bookings made until 20 August 2025. Travel periods for this promotion run from 14 November 2025 to 24 October 2026.
These fares include passenger service charges, regulatory fees, and fuel surcharges, ensuring transparency in pricing and making it one of the most competitive long-haul options between Southeast Asia and Europe.

Istanbul Tour Guide
As Türkiye’s largest city and economic powerhouse, Istanbul offers an unparalleled mix of cultural heritage, architectural marvels, and vibrant local life. Iconic landmarks include:
- Hagia Sophia – A UNESCO World Heritage site and architectural wonder blending Byzantine and Ottoman influences.
- Blue Mosque – Known for its stunning blue tiles and grand domes, it remains a functioning mosque.
- Topkapi Palace – The opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans.
- Grand Bazaar & Spice Market – Bustling hubs for traditional crafts, jewelry, and culinary delights.
Istanbul’s unique geography offers travellers the rare experience of exploring two continents in one city.
A short ferry ride across the Bosphorus provides contrasting perspectives of its European and Asian districts.

Best Times to Visit
- Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) are ideal, with mild temperatures and vibrant city events such as the Tulip Festival in April.
- Summer offers long daylight hours but can be hot and humid.
- Winter brings a moody, rainy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the city’s cosy cafes and tea houses.

Local Insights and Information
- Time Zone: TRT (GMT+3), no daylight savings.
- Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY).
- Language: Turkish is predominant, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Transport: Extensive metro, tram, ferry, and bus systems, all accessible with the IstanbulKart.
- Calling Code: +90.
Neighborhoods to explore include Sultanahmet (historic core), Kadıköy (artsy and vibrant), Beşiktaş (lively nightlife), and Karaköy (trendy cafes and galleries).

Transportation Options
For Singapore-based travellers, this route means fewer stopovers and reduced travel time compared to alternative European connections. By utilising Kuala Lumpur as a transfer hub, passengers can enjoy:
- Single booking for the entire journey.
- Through check-in for baggage.
- Coordinated flight schedules for minimal layovers.
- Lower fares compared to traditional full-service carriers.
This is particularly appealing for budget-conscious travelers, group tours, and those combining multiple destinations in a single trip.

AirAsia X’s Growing Long-Haul Network
With the Istanbul route launch, AirAsia X continues to strengthen its long-haul strategy, expanding into key markets across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
The airline’s model focuses on offering affordable fares while maintaining reliable service on medium-haul to long-haul routes.
By targeting major transit hubs like Istanbul, AirAsia X taps into strong inbound and outbound tourism flows while providing Southeast Asian travellers access to wider networks operated by partner and codeshare airlines.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
AirAsia X Adds New Flights to This Central Asian Country
The post AirAsia X Adds New Flight to Most Connected International Airport in the World appeared first on Aviation A2Z.