AirAsia expands network in Vietnam with inaugural flight from Kota Kinabalu

Photo Caption: [Third from left] Julinus Jeffery Jimit, Chief Executive Officer of the Sabah Tourism Board, alongside the crew onboard the inaugural flight from Kota Kinabalu to Ho Chi Minh City

HO CHI MINH CITY, 3 December 2024 – AirAsia expanded its network in Vietnam with the launch of a new direct route from Kota Kinabalu to Ho Chi Minh City today.

The inaugural flight departed from Kota Kinabalu International Airport at 11:45 AM and arrived at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City at 12:55 PM, with a passenger load of 96% percent. This launch marks the commencement of AirAsia’s 16th international flight operated by AirAsia Malaysia (flight code AK) from Kota Kinabalu.

This new route launch also aligns with Malaysia’s broader tourism goals that include a targeted 27.3 million international tourist arrivals in 2024 and in preparation for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

The airline’s renewed focus on Vietnam aligns with the country’s ambitious tourism goal of attracting 17-18 million international visitors this year, as it enters its peak season for global arrivals in the final quarter.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Seri Christina Liew described the introduction of the Ho Chi Minh City to Kota Kinabalu route as a milestone in strengthening Sabah's air connectivity in Southeast Asia.

She said this new connection represents a significant step in efforts to expand Sabah's reach within the ASEAN region. "I commend AirAsia for their commitment to enhancing regional accessibility and supporting Sabah's vision to be a top tourism destination in Southeast Asia," she added.

Julinus Jeffery Jimit, Chief Executive Officer of Sabah Tourism Board said: "We are delighted to welcome this new route, marking a significant milestone for Sabah as a growing must-visit destination in Southeast Asia. Ho Chi Minh City is already well-known among Sabahans, and this new route opens the door for Vietnamese travellers to explore Sabah’s stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and growing interest in medical tourism and wellness travel. With this enhanced accessibility, Sabah Tourism Board will intensify efforts to promote this route and showcase the best of Sabah. We extend our gratitude to AirAsia for their support in strengthening regional connectivity and boosting tourism growth between Sabah and Vietnam."

Paul Carroll, Chief Commercial Officer of AirAsia Aviation Group said: “Today’s launch underscores our commitment to strengthening regional connectivity while offering affordable, seamless travel for our guests. Vietnam has consistently been a key market for AirAsia, and this new service from Kota Kinabalu adds another dimension to our network. It not only enhances tourism potential for both Sabah and Vietnam but also supports regional trade and economic growth. We are excited to continue fostering stronger ties between these vibrant destinations. 

“These new routes highlight Vietnam’s growing importance to AirAsia as a key market in our network. With its strategic location and increasing demand for affordable travel, Vietnam serves as a vital hub for connecting Asean and beyond, further demonstrating our commitment to the region’s tourism and economic growth.”

AirAsia now operates 93 flights weekly to and from Vietnam, delivering over one million seats since 2023 , further positioning Vietnam as a key connectivity hub for the region.