AirAsia Malaysia (flight code AK) is expanding its presence in Indonesia with the addition of two new direct routes from Kuala Lumpur to Palembang and Semarang, further strengthening its position as one of the most connected foreign carries.
With these additions, AirAsia Malaysia now serves 15 destinations across Indonesia, operating a total of 188 weekly flights between the two nations. This expansion marks a timely alignment with Indonesia’s goal of 16 million international arrivals in 2025, with Malaysia consistently ranking among its top inbound markets.
New International Connections
The new routes will connect Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport (PLM) in Palembang and Jenderal Ahmad Yani International Airport (SRG) in Semarang.
Both airports had recently reopened for its international services, and AirAsia is the first international airline to resume operations to these two key Indonesian cuties.
Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia said, “This launch reflects our ongoing efforts to serve more cities across Indonesia, especially those that have been underserved. We are proud to return to Palembang and Semarang and we were among the first to reopen seats to both PLM and SRG reaffirming our commitment to these key destinations, two vibrant cities that deserve a wider audience. Each new route opens up more opportunities for business, tourism and for people to reconnect. We are also proud to bring them closer to Kuala Lumpur and beyond with convenient, affordable flights. We thank the government and all stakeholders who have supported this milestone.”
AirAsia’s Expanding Indonesian Footprint
The airline now flies to the following destinations in Indonesia from Malaysia:
- From Kuala Lumpur: Jakarta, Bali (Denpasar), Medan, Yogyakarta, Banda Aceh, Makassar, Padang, Pekanbaru, Balikpapan, Labuan Bajo, Lombok, Palembang, Semarang)
- From Penang: Jakarta, Medan
This strategic expansion also supports Malaysia’s Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, aiming to enhance regional tourism and cultural exchange between neighboring countries.
Launch Promotions
To celebrate the launch, AirAsia is offering special promotional fares:
- From Kuala Lumpur to Palembang: From RM159 one-way (all-in)
- Palembang to Kuala Lumpur: From IDR499,000 one-way (all-in)
Booking periods are opened now until 29th June 2025 and travel period starts from 17th July to 28th March 2026.
- Kuala Lumpur to Semarang: From RM199 one-way (all-in)
- Semarang to Kuala Lumpur: From IDR799,000 one-way (all-in)
Booking Period starts now until 29th June 2025 and travel period starts from 5th September 2025 to 28th March 2026. All promotional fares are available via the AirAsia MOVE app and AirAsia website.
Why Palembang and Semarang?
Palembang, the capital of South Sumatra and Sumatra;s second largest city, is steeped in history as the former centre of the Sriwijaya Empire. Travellers are drawn to its riverfront beauty, including the Musi River and the iconic Ampera Bridge, along with its vibrant culinary scene.
Semarang, the capital of Central Java, is a culturally rich destination blending Javanese and Chinese influences. Recognised as the cleanest tourist city in Southeast Asia by ASEAN standards (2020-2022), its attraction include the colourful Kampung Pelangi (Rainbow Village) and the historic Kota Lama (Old Town)
With the increasing demand for regional travel and renewed international air access, AirAsia’s launch of these new routes marks a significant step in revitalising Southeast Asian tourism, while offering affordable and convenient travel options for both leisure and business travellers.
Sources: AirAsia
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