As part of the Finocchiaro CLP Government's year of action, certainty and security, the Northern Territory has landed a major win for jobs, tourism and trade, with AirAsia's new direct service between Kuala Lumpur and Darwin now underway.
AirAsia's inaugural flight touched down at Darwin International Airport today, with a Territory delegation led by Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill, returning from business and investment talks in Malaysia.
"This new direct route connects the Territory to one of Southeast Asia's major hubs," Minister Cahill said.
"It means more tourists, more trade opportunities, and more international exposure for local business. It's a practical step toward rebuilding the economy and strengthening people-to-people ties."
AirAsia will operate four return flights each week, offering Territorians affordable access to Kuala Lumpur and seamless onward connections to over 130 destinations across the AirAsia network.
"This partnership opens doors," Minister Cahill said.
"We're making it easier to visit, invest and do business in the Territory, and giving Territorians more choice and better value for international travel."
The new route is backed by the Territory Aviation Attraction Scheme (TAAS), with strong support from the Airport Development Group.
Rob Porter, Executive General Manager at Airport Development Group, said this is the result of a true partnership between airline, government and airport.
"It's a win for the Territory - bringing affordable travel, supporting local jobs and injecting fresh energy into our visitor economy."
Dato' Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, said the Darwin service adds to the airline's growing Australian network and marks a new chapter for regional tourism.
"We're thrilled to provide this connectivity between NT and Kuala Lumpur. This route offers the only direct, affordable link between Darwin and Kuala Lumpur, and serves as a gateway to our broader network across Asia," he said.
To mark the launch, AirAsia and the NT Government are hosting a familiarisation trip showcasing Darwin and the Top End, featuring leading Malaysian and Indonesian influencers and travel media.
From July, Tourism NT will roll out a major Malaysian marketing campaign - Darwin's a Darling with Captain Snappy - to promote the NT as a must-visit destination. The campaign will feature digital ads, radio, social media, influencer content and outdoor media.
Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director-General of Tourism Malaysia, welcomed the new service.
"This flight strengthens the deep ties between Malaysia and Australia. With 70 years of diplomatic relations being celebrated in 2025, tourism remains a vital bridge between our communities," he said.
The Kuala Lumpur-Darwin route is now on sale via airasia.com, with promotional one-way fares starting from $219 AUD.
