{"id":129476,"date":"2026-01-14T11:11:00","date_gmt":"2026-01-14T05:41:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aviationa2z.com\/?p=129476"},"modified":"2026-01-14T04:53:07","modified_gmt":"2026-01-13T23:23:07","slug":"airasia-x-to-resume-flights-from-kuala-lumpur-to-busan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aviationa2z.com\/index.php\/2026\/01\/14\/airasia-x-to-resume-flights-from-kuala-lumpur-to-busan\/","title":{"rendered":"AirAsia X to Resume Flights from Kuala Lumpur to This South Korean City"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

SEPANG\u2014<\/strong> AirAsia X (D7)<\/a> has confirmed the resumption of direct flights between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)<\/a> and Gimhae International Airport (PUS), Busan, reinforcing its long-haul expansion strategy in North Asia. The service will restart on 17 June 2026, restoring nonstop connectivity between Malaysia and South Korea\u2019s largest coastal city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The four-times-weekly operation will become AirAsia X\u2019s 21st destination overall and its second in South Korea after Seoul. The airline positions the route as a response to sustained travel demand between Southeast Asia and North Asia, while also supporting Malaysia\u2019s inbound tourism objectives ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"AirAsia
Photo: AirAsia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

AirAsia X Busan Flights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

AirAsia X will operate the Kuala Lumpur\u2013Busan route four times a week, offering a consistent schedule designed to serve both leisure and visiting friends and relatives traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The airline will deploy its Airbus A330-300<\/a> fleet on the sector, maintaining a two-class configuration that includes Economy and Premium Flatbed cabins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The route restoration strengthens AirAsia X\u2019s standing as the only Malaysian carrier offering direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Busan. It also complements the airline\u2019s existing services to Seoul, allowing AirAsia X to broaden its coverage across South Korea\u2019s key population and tourism centres.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Benyamin Ismail, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia X<\/strong>, said the route\u2019s return reflects disciplined network growth and renewed confidence in long-haul demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He noted that Busan adds depth to the airline\u2019s South Korea presence while enabling more travellers to access affordable long-haul travel options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"AirAsia
Photo: Md Shaifuzzaman Ayan | Wikimedia Commons
https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:AirAsia_X_Airlines.jpg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Network and tourism impact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Busan is South Korea\u2019s second-largest city and a major port, cultural hub, and tourism gateway. The city is known for its beaches, mountain scenery, and landmark attractions such as Jagalchi Fish Market and Gamcheon Culture Village, alongside hosting the internationally recognised Busan International Film Festival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From Malaysia\u2019s perspective, the restored route is expected to contribute to inbound tourism flows, particularly during the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. South Korea remains an important source market, and direct air connectivity is viewed as a key enabler for sustaining visitor growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For AirAsia X, North Asia continues to represent its strongest growth region. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The airline\u2019s strategy focuses on rebuilding and expanding routes with proven demand, supported by cost-efficient widebody operations and competitive fare offerings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"AirAsia
Photo: Cl\u00e9ment Alloing<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Promotional Fares<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

To mark the relaunch, AirAsia X has introduced limited-time promotional fares across both cabin classes. Economy Class fares start from RM299 all-in for one-way travel, while Premium Flatbed seats are available from RM999 all-in for one-way journeys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The promotional fares are available for booking until 18 January 2026, with travel valid between 17 June and 30 November 2026. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The pricing strategy aligns with AirAsia X\u2019s broader objective of stimulating early demand while reinforcing its value proposition in the long-haul low-cost segment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The airline expects the combination of competitive fares, direct connectivity, and rising travel demand to support strong load factors once the service resumes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"AirAsia
Photo: chanho choi: https:\/\/www.pexels.com\/photo\/panoramic-view-of-busan-with-iconic-bridge-32155352\/<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Busan Travel Guide<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

is a coastal city known for beaches, hillside villages, temples, and modern urban districts spread across a rugged landscape. This three-day itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want broad coverage without wasting time in transit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arriving via Korean Air (KE), Asiana Airlines (OZ), or Air Busan (BX) through Busan Gimhae International Airport (PUS), the city rewards travelers who plan efficiently. This guide explains how to navigate Busan\u2019s layout while seeing its most important attractions in three days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understanding Busan\u2019s Geography and Travel Challenges<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Busan\u2019s size and terrain define how the city works. Mountains, hills, and a long coastline divide neighborhoods into distinct zones, making travel slower than expected for first-time visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The city expanded rapidly during the Korean War when displaced populations settled wherever land was available. Small hillside communities formed independently and were later absorbed into the city. Today, places like Gamcheon Culture Village, Huinnyeoul Culture Village, and Dakbatgol Mural Village remain residential neighborhoods shaped by that history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Busan\u2019s metro system is reliable but limited in coverage. Many attractions require additional walking or bus connections. For travelers with limited time, guided day tours and selective use of buses significantly reduce transit delays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting to Busan and Moving Around the City<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Arriving by Air or Train<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Busan Gimhae International Airport (PUS) serves domestic and regional international routes. The airport light rail connects to Sasang Station, where passengers transfer to Metro Line 2 for access to central districts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Travelers arriving from Seoul can use the KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station to Busan Station. The journey takes approximately two to three hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Navigation apps such as Naver Maps and KakaoMap are essential, as Google Maps has limited functionality in South Korea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Public Transport and Transit Cards<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The T-money card works on buses, metros, and trains nationwide. It can be purchased or reloaded at convenience stores and metro stations and reused across multiple cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Stay for a Short Visit<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Seomyeon is one of the most practical areas for a short stay. It sits at the intersection of major metro lines, offers direct airport access, and has a dense selection of restaurants and shops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hotels in this area also benefit travelers joining guided tours, as many tours use Seomyeon as a central pickup point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Photo: By by lwy – https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/lwy\/2198930983\/, CC BY 2.0, https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/w\/index.php?curid=3412646<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Day 1: Coastal Highlights and Cultural Villages<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Guided City Tour Overview<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The first day focuses on attractions located far apart and difficult to reach independently. A guided city tour using a minibus allows efficient access to multiple coastal and hillside locations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Typical stops include Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory, Haeundae Blueline Park, Huinnyeoul Culture Village, and Gamcheon Culture Village.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

This seaside Buddhist temple stands directly on the rocky coast, offering open views of the sea. Unlike most Korean temples, it is not located in the mountains. Entry is free, and early visits help avoid crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The glass-floor observation deck extends over the water, providing views of the coastline and surrounding city. The platform is a short stop but adds visual contrast to the day\u2019s itinerary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Haeundae Blueline Park<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The coastal sky capsule ride follows an elevated track above the shoreline. The route between Cheongsapo and Mipo offers consistent ocean views and typically shorter queues when boarded from Cheongsapo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Huinnyeoul Culture Village<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

This car-free hillside neighborhood overlooks the bay and features murals, cafes, and narrow pedestrian streets. Its layout and ocean views create a quiet contrast to Busan\u2019s denser districts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gamcheon Culture Village<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Gamcheon is known for its colorful hillside houses, art installations, and layered streets. Originally a refugee settlement, it has become one of Busan\u2019s most recognizable neighborhoods. Viewpoints near local cafes offer the best perspectives of the village\u2019s layout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day 2: Coastal Walks and City Beaches<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Oryukdo Park and Skywalk<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Oryukdo Park marks the start of the Haeparang-gil coastal trail. Travelers can either walk a longer section of the path or visit the Oryukdo Skywalk, a free glass platform extending over the sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gwangalli Beach and Surroundings<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Gwangalli Beach combines an urban skyline with a wide sandy shoreline. The Gwangan Bridge dominates the view, especially after sunset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Millak Live Fish Sashimi Market is popular with locals who buy fresh seafood and eat it nearby. The surrounding area also features cafes, breweries, and casual restaurants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gwangalli Drone Show<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

On Saturdays, drone light shows take place over the bay. Hundreds of drones form coordinated patterns in the sky, offering a short but memorable evening event during warmer months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Photo: By Closenoble – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/w\/index.php?curid=12115068<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Day 3: Local Neighborhoods and Temples<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Dakbatgol Mural Village<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

This hillside village is accessible by public transport and known for its murals and painted stairways. A small cable car operates within the village to assist elderly residents and may be used by visitors when available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nampo District and Busan Tower<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The Nampo area serves as a commercial hub with shopping streets, street food, and cultural landmarks. BIFF Square and Gwangbokdong Fashion Street are key pedestrian areas, while Yongdusan Park offers access to Busan Tower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samgwangsa Temple<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Located on the slopes of Baekyangsan Mountain, Samgwangsa Temple is known for its scale and vibrant architecture. During festival seasons, lantern displays fill the grounds, but the site remains visually striking year-round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Extending the Itinerary Beyond Three Days<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Travelers with additional time can explore attractions such as Songdo Skywalk, Songdo Marine Cable Car, Spa Land Centum City, Taejongdae Park, and the Busan Museum of Art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Photo: Albion | Wikimedia Commons
https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Air_Asia_X_Airbus_A340-300.jpg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bottom Line<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The resumption of Kuala Lumpur\u2013Busan flights marks a calculated expansion for AirAsia X as it deepens its footprint in North Asia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

With four weekly services, competitive fares, and strategic timing ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026, the route positions the airline to capture both outbound and inbound travel demand while strengthening its long-haul network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Join us on\u00a0Telegram Group\u00a0<\/a>for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on\u00a0Google News<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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AirAsia X Adds New Flight to Most Connected International Airport in the World<\/a><\/blockquote>