AirAsia’s New Fleet Set to Unlock More Direct Long-Haul Flights for Travelers

By Ivan PetrenkoJul 5, 2025 15:39 PMNews
Share:
AirAsia airplane wing with logo against clear sky
New Airbus A321XLR expands AirAsia’s long-haul reach. Source: unsplash

AirAsia Berhad, a subsidiary of Capital A Berhad, announced it will grow its fleet with an order of 50 Airbus A321XLR aircraft, plus an option for 20 additional planes. On July 5, 2025, in Paris, the airline signed a USD 12.25 billion agreement, highlighting its shift toward a global low-cost carrier model. The aircraft are expected to be delivered from 2028 through 2032, giving the airline time to develop its network strategy.

The agreement was signed in Paris in the presence of Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and outlines AirAsia’s plan to expand its international operations. This aircraft will be added to the airline’s Airbus fleet, supporting plans to introduce new routes across continents. Key specifications of the aircraft comprise:

  • Extended range of up to 8,700 kilometers,
  • Enhanced fuel efficiency for long-haul operations,
  • Compatibility with AirAsia’s current single-manufacturer fleet,
  • Suitability for direct, point-to-point flights between distant cities.

These improvements offer travelers simpler access to distant destinations that used to be harder to reach or more expensive. Thanks to the extended range of the A321XLR, the airline can introduce nonstop flights linking Asia to Europe, the Middle East, and Australia. This development could increase flight options between regional cities that are typically underserved by conventional full-service carriers.

Reduced fuel use and lower operating expenses for the new planes could help keep ticket prices more affordable and steady. Travelers will enjoy faster journeys, decreased layover durations, and more diverse route options. This shift is particularly relevant for passengers in smaller markets, where international travel options are often limited. These aircraft’s improved efficiency also supports increasing demands for greener and more sustainable flying.

We are pleased to confirm this agreement, as AirAsia Group begins its next development chapter. Having resumed its growth trajectory, which we salute and support, the airline is creating solid fleet efficiencies, allowing global network expansion.
Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus

AirAsia’s move reflects a broader trend in aviation, where long-range narrow-body aircraft are reshaping how airlines connect across continents. Passengers are likely to see long-distance travel become more affordable, accessible, and convenient. With the introduction of these aircraft, passengers should see improved access to long-distance flights that don’t require layovers at key hub airports.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Trains at London Marylebone Station, London, UK

Rail Warning: Disruption on Birmingham to Marylebone Line This Sunday

Jul 19, 2025 20:27 PM
Railway workers in safety gear maintaining tracks beside a freight wagon

Rail Disruptions in Northern Italy May Hinder Access to Scenic Nature Spots This July

Jul 19, 2025 18:33 PM

Palermo Gains Direct Flights to Warsaw Opening New Travel Possibilities

Jul 19, 2025 16:42 PM

Rail Disruption in Cumbria to Limit Access to Scenic Coastal Spots This September

Jul 19, 2025 02:28 AM
Empty airplane cabin with purple seats and mood lighting

Brussels Airlines Expands Travel Options for Tomorrowland 2025 Attendees

Jul 19, 2025 00:34 AM
Rail workers performing track upgrades at a busy station

Rail Modernisation in Wales to Disrupt Travel from 2 to 11 August

Jul 18, 2025 22:46 PM
Jet2.com aircraft taxiing on runway at airport

New Jet2.com Service Links Edinburgh with Northern Italy’s Ski Resorts

Jul 18, 2025 20:39 PM
Emirates Airbus A380 taking off under cloudy sky

Emirates Expands Dublin Route with New Flight, Offering More Travel Choices

Jul 18, 2025 18:22 PM
Worker in safety gear at a construction site handling equipment near railway infrastructure

Rail Upgrades to Disrupt Travel Access to Key Southeast Destinations This October

Jul 18, 2025 04:45 AM

The Venice Times Hotel to Join IHG, Bringing New Stay Option to the City Centre

Jul 18, 2025 02:38 AM

KLM Launches Winter Flights to Kittilä, Opening Access to Finnish Lapland

Jul 17, 2025 23:28 PM
Henley-on-Thames street with bunting and church

Historic Rowing Town Broadens Travel Potential Outside Summer

Jul 17, 2025 21:32 PM
Passengers seated in Terminal 5 at London Heathrow Airport

Quick Stop, Big Bill: Curbside Fees Rise at UK Airports

Jul 17, 2025 19:46 PM
Cozy bedroom interior with modern bedside lamp and decorative pillows

Niyama Private Islands Completes Renovation, Expands Travel Options in Maldives

Jul 17, 2025 17:29 PM
Batik Air Compensation for Delayed or Cancelled Flights

Batik Air Flight Delay or Cancellation Compensation

Jul 17, 2025 09:19 AM

AirAsia Opens New Direct Route Unlocking Easier Access to Northern Vietnam’s Hidden Gems

Jul 17, 2025 04:33 AM

Etihad and SKY express Open New Gateways to the Greek Islands

Jul 16, 2025 23:42 PM
Cozy modern bedroom with neutral decor and soft lighting

Kenya’s Safari Camps Modernize Facilities Amid Growing Focus on Conservation and Visitor Experience

Jul 16, 2025 21:35 PM
IndiGo aircraft taxiing at an airport in daylight

New Route Connects North England with Mumbai Without Stopovers

Jul 16, 2025 19:26 PM
Modern hotel room with soft lighting and neutral decor

Crowne Plaza Launches New Hotel Near Madinah’s Main Train Hub

Jul 16, 2025 17:41 PM
A Virgin Australia airplane taking off with landing gear extended

Virgin Australia’s One-Night Flight Offers New Way to Experience Melbourne’s Nightlife

Jul 16, 2025 16:34 PM
Modern hotel room corner with bedside table, lamp, and neutral bedding

More Hotel Choices Ahead as Scandic Expands into Ireland and the UK

Jul 15, 2025 22:21 PM

Etihad Opens New Direct Flights to Uncover Hidden Gems Across Eurasia

Jul 15, 2025 20:37 PM

Anantara Karuizawa Retreat Hotel to Open in 2030 as New Base for Tokyo Getaways

Jul 15, 2025 17:46 PM
Delta airplane in flight against clear sky

Delta Enhances Inflight Dining and Meal Options for Summer Travelers

Jul 15, 2025 11:23 AM
Modern hotel room with bed, desk and en-suite bathroom

Ponce to Gain New Spark by Hilton Hotel Near Local Hotspots

Jul 15, 2025 08:39 AM