AirAsia X maintains June launch for Bahrain hub and flights

AIRASIA X BHD has reaffirmed its commitment to launching a new international hub in Bahrain this June, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The budget carrier initially announced plans in February to use the Gulf nation as a transit point for flights between Kuala Lumpur and London, marking its first operational base outside of Asia. The project faces uncertainty following military actions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran earlier this year. These events have significantly disrupted regional aviation, forcing several carriers to reroute or cancel services to avoid impacted airspace.

Chief Executive Bo Lingam stated during a press conference that the service would proceed as scheduled if regional hostilities cease before the June 26 launch date. However, he remained cautious regarding the impact of a prolonged conflict.