The inaugural flight departed from Kota Kinabalu International Airport at 11:45 am and landed at Tan Son Nhat Airport at 12:55 pm, with a 96% occupancy rate. The inaugural flight marks the 16th international flight operated by AirAsia Malaysia (code AK) from Kota Kinabalu.

AirAsia's new route has contributed significantly to Tourism Malaysia's overall tourism development strategy to welcome 27.3 million international visitors by 2024 and prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

AirAsia's new strategy in the Vietnamese market is also in line with Vietnam's goal of welcoming 17-18 million international visitors this year, especially when entering the peak season of welcoming international visitors in the fourth quarter.

“The launch of this new route today underlines our commitment to enhance regional connectivity while providing affordable and convenient travel experiences to our guests. Vietnam has always been an important market for AirAsia and the new route from Kota Kinabalu adds depth to our network. This route not only enhances the tourism potential of both Sabah and Vietnam, but also supports trade and economic development in the region,” said Paul Carroll, Chief Commercial Officer of AirAsia Aviation Group.

Currently, AirAsia is operating 93 weekly flights to and from Vietnam, offering more than 1 million seats from 2023, thereby strengthening Vietnam's role as an important regional connectivity hub.

Yellow River