AirAsia X Positions Bahrain As Strategic Hub For Global Network Expansion

From Abdul Hamid A Rahman

MANAMA, Feb 11 (Bernama) -- AirAsia X Bhd (AAX) is advancing its global expansion strategy by positioning Bahrain as a strategic hub to strengthen connectivity between Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Australia.

The move follows the signing of a letter of intent (LoI) on Nov 3, 2025 between Capital A Bhd and Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications to develop Bahrain as AAX’s Middle East hub.

AAX said the development forms part of its broader plan to build a globally connected long-haul network anchored by strategic hubs beyond Southeast Asia, leveraging Bahrain’s location and aviation infrastructure to facilitate greater flows of travellers, trade and tourism.

Group chief executive officer Bo Lingam said the initiative reflects AAX’s transformation into a globally connected airline following its recovery from the pandemic.

“We navigated one of the most challenging periods in aviation history and emerged stronger and more focused. We are rebuilding with discipline, backed by a secured order book of 374 aircraft and a comprehensive five-year growth plan to strengthen our presence across key regions.

“Bahrain fits squarely into our long-term network blueprint to link ASEAN and Asia to the world, with continued focus on disciplined fleet expansion, strengthening core hubs, and driving ancillary and digital growth,” he said in a statement today.

Meanwhile, Capital A chief executive officer and AAX advisor Tan Sri Tony Fernandes said Bahrain would serve as a scalable aviation platform linking Asia with the Middle East and Europe while supporting the group’s broader aviation ecosystem.

He said the partnership would also enable Capital A’s cargo and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) businesses to expand alongside AAX.

“Teleport has marked an important milestone with its first flight arrival in Bahrain following its recent US$50 million capital raising, positioning the kingdom as a key aviation and logistics hub in the region.

“We will continue to deepen partnerships with airports, tourism authorities and industry stakeholders to unlock new demand corridors while maintaining affordable long-haul travel,” he said.

Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa said the collaboration reflects Bahrain’s strength as an economic partner and its role as a regional and global connectivity hub.

He said the investment is expected to reinforce Bahrain’s position as a gateway linking Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe, while creating employment opportunities in aviation operations and supporting sectors such as tourism, logistics and hospitality.

"Just as importantly, it will support skills development and long-term career pathways for Bahrainis in a global industry that continues to evolve and grow. We are proud to welcome AirAsia X," he said.

AAX said it would continue expanding its long-haul operations and hub connectivity through fleet upgrades, digital initiatives and strategic partnerships, while strengthening its hub-and-network model to connect key global regions.

-- BERNAMA