Flight Buzz
Air Arabia adds third daily flight to Bangkok from October 26: See updated schedules and timings | World News
Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost carrier, has announced the addition of a third daily flight between Sharjah International Airport and Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, Thailand. The expanded service will begin on October 26, 2025, significantly enhancing travel connectivity between the United Arab Emirates and Thailand. This move is in direct response to growing passenger demand on the route and aligns with the airline’s broader strategy to offer flexible, affordable, and convenient travel options. With this new flight, Air Arabia will operate three direct flights daily on the Sharjah–Bangkok route, strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia and reaffirming its commitment to expanding access to key global markets. Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, stated:“We are glad to expand our service to Bangkok, which reaffirms our ongoing commitment to meeting customer demand and strengthening connectivity to key global markets. We remain dedicated to enhancing the travel experience of our customers while also contributing to the growth of trade and tourism ties between the UAE and Thailand.”
Updated Flight Schedule and Service Details
The revised daily schedule will include three direct flights in each direction, operating at varied times to accommodate different travel preferences and needs. All timings listed are in local time.
| Flight No. | From | Departure Time | To | Arrival Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G9 816 | Sharjah | 07:40 | Bangkok | 16:55 | Daily |
| G9 817 | Bangkok | 17:55 | Sharjah | 21:55 | Daily |
| G9 821 | Sharjah | 21:55 | Bangkok | 07:10 (next day) | Daily |
| G9 822 | Bangkok | 08:00 | Sharjah | 12:00 | Daily |
| G9 823 | Sharjah | 01:15 | Bangkok | 10:30 | Daily |
| G9 824 | Bangkok | 11:30 | Sharjah | 15:30 | Daily |
Focus on Passenger Experience and Fleet Efficiency
The new flights will be operated using the Airbus A321neo-LR aircraft, part of Air Arabia’s modern fleet of 83 Airbus A320 and A321neo-LR aircraft. These aircraft are well-known for their fuel efficiency and onboard comfort. Air Arabia continues to prioritize passenger experience by offering features such as:
- SkyTime: A complimentary in-flight streaming service allowing passengers to access entertainment on their personal devices.
- SkyCafe: A menu of onboard meals and beverages available for purchase.
- Air Rewards: The region’s most generous loyalty program, allowing frequent flyers to accumulate points and redeem benefits.
With these features, the airline combines low-cost travel with comfort and service reliability, aligning with its broader goal of delivering affordable yet satisfying travel experiences.
Strengthening Trade and Tourism Links
The introduction of a third daily flight between Sharjah and Bangkok is also seen as a strategic move to support growing trade and tourism relations between the UAE and Thailand. Bangkok remains one of the most popular travel destinations for UAE residents, known for its mix of cultural heritage, vibrant street life, luxury hospitality, and access to tropical beaches and resorts. Currently, Air Arabia operates flights to over 170 destinations across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Sharjah serves as the primary hub, and in recent years, the airline has significantly expanded its route network and flight frequencies. The addition of this third daily flight to Bangkok is part of that broader expansion strategy. Customers can now book seats on the new flight through the airline’s website, call center, or authorized travel agents. Bookings are also available through third-party travel platforms, maintaining accessibility and convenience for a global customer base.
A record number of passengers flew in 2024.
Izusek | E+ | Getty Images
Southwest Airlines, once known for its first-come, first-served approach to boarding and seating, on Tuesday began selling its first tickets with assigned seats. That change — and with it, new boarding groups — goes into effect for flights in late January.
The move brings Southwest more in line with other major carriers, where travelers need to weigh the value of paying for an early-boarding upgrade.
“The number one reason to buy the early boarding upgrade is if you have a carry-on for the overhead bin,” said Sara Wilcox, an advisor at Fora Travel, a travel agency in New York City.
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Priority boarding is “basically the race to get our carry-on suitcases in the overhead bins,” said Henry Harteveldt, founder of Atmosphere Research Group, a travel industry market research and advisory firm.
Understanding the boarding process
By law, individuals with disabilities who require special assistance must have the opportunity to board a flight first. Depending on an airline’s policy, other groups like active military members and families with young children may also be offered early boarding.
Beyond that, while the boarding process varies by airline, your spot among boarding groups will generally depend on your status with the airline and the kind of airfare you booked, experts say.
Individuals with elite airline status are typically among the first boarding groups, Harteveldt said. If you don’t have status and you bought a discounted or restricted coach fare, expect to be among the last to board.
If you fit an airline’s early boarding criteria, you might not need to pay for the perk.
Look for early-boarding add-on options
Travelers can sometimes buy early boarding as an add-on, either when you buy the flight or as your travel date approaches. Sometimes it’s bundled with other extras, too.
The cost of the add-on depends on the airline, and in some cases, how long the flight is, according to Sally French, a travel expert at NerdWallet.
For instance, the priority boarding add-on through United Airlines costs a flat rate of $24 per person.
“If overhead space is important to you, you do need to pay for priority boarding,” said French.
How co-branded travel credit cards can help
There are different ways to move up the boarding group ladder. Applying for and using an airline’s travel credit card can help you move closer to elite status, Harteveldt said.
Such cards typically include other perks like free or heavily discounted checked baggage fees. Before you apply, make sure to read and understand the card’s terms and conditions, as some charge high annual fees.
Remember that simply having the card is generally not enough to get the early-boarding benefits. You get the perk when you use the card to book that ticket.
‘You’re also bumped up’ through a premium airfare
Another way to board earlier is by booking a premium economy or main economy airfare, said French.
Doing so typically allows you to book a specific seat, and “you’re also bumped up in an early boarding position,” she said.
Premium economy “is a step up from economy,” but is not as costly as first or business class, according to Skyscanner, a travel site. In addition to more legroom, wider seats and more recline, these seats offer priority services for check-in and boarding.
But this is an expensive way to get on the plane sooner. Price-wise, a premium economy fare will likely be over 50% less expensive than a business class fare, but is at least 30% more expensive than standard economy, per Skyscanner.
If you have enough points or miles with an airline, you might be able to upgrade from economy to premium economy, per Skyscanner.
While “its not the worst use ever,” remember that you might not get more than one cent per mile, said Stella Shon, a senior features editor at UpgradedPoints, a travel site.
“Cash upgrades are where you get the most value,” she said. If not, assess where your points and miles will be the most valuable to you.
While paying to pick a seat can help you get a better boarding group, especially if you’re willing to pay for an extra legroom seat, you can forgo it. NerdWallet’s French said that passengers should not feel obligated to pay the added cost for early boarding.
If you simply paid for a flight — with or without seat reservations — the airline will assign a seat for you.
You’re just more likely to be placed in a middle seat towards the back of the plane, as well as being among the last passengers to board, she said.
“Just hope by the time you board there’s space in the overhead bin,” said Harteveldt.
Flight Buzz
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, AirAsia X Opens a New Chapter in Connectivity with Direct Flights Starting in October
Saturday, August 2, 2025
AirAsia X is expanding its global network by launching direct flights between Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, starting in October. This move marks a significant milestone in improving connectivity between Central Asia and Southeast Asia, offering travelers a more convenient and efficient way to explore both regions. The new route is set to boost tourism and trade, providing greater accessibility for both leisure and business travelers.
AirAsia X Expands with New Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur Route: A Gateway for Central Asia and Southeast Asia Travelers
AirAsia X (D7), the world’s renowned low-cost airline, has announced an exciting new addition to its network: direct flights between Tashkent (TAS), Uzbekistan, and Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Malaysia, starting from 15 October 2025. This new route is a game-changer for travelers in Central Asia, providing a seamless connection between the capital of Uzbekistan and one of Southeast Asia’s busiest international hubs. The direct flights, operating three times a week, are set to cater to the rising demand for travel between the two regions, offering both tourists and business travelers new opportunities to explore, connect, and experience different cultures.
Strategic Significance of the New Route
The launch of the Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur route is a key milestone in AirAsia X’s expansion strategy. The flights will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with flight D7123 departing Tashkent at 19:30 and arriving in Kuala Lumpur at 06:10 the next day. The return leg, flight D7122, will leave Kuala Lumpur at 13:25, landing in Tashkent at 18:15. This schedule provides travelers with convenient and flexible travel options, further strengthening AirAsia X’s presence in the region.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), AirAsia X’s main hub, will offer Tashkent passengers easy access to a vast network of more than 130 global destinations via the airline’s Fly-Thru service. This unique connectivity enhances the attractiveness of Kuala Lumpur as a transit point for travelers heading to Southeast Asia, Australia, East Asia, and beyond. With the addition of Tashkent to its route map, AirAsia X is reinforcing its position as a leading low-cost carrier for medium-haul flights between Asia and Central Asia.
For Uzbek travelers, this new route opens up exciting opportunities to explore Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and other far-reaching destinations in the Asia-Pacific region. The central location of Kuala Lumpur makes it an ideal hub for seamless connectivity, helping boost the tourism and business ties between Uzbekistan and the Southeast Asia region. Furthermore, Malaysians and other regional travelers now have direct access to Uzbekistan’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty, encouraging greater tourism and cross-cultural exchange.
Catering to Central Asia’s Growing Travel Market
The Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur route marks a strategic move by AirAsia X to tap into the growing demand for international travel in Central Asia. Uzbekistan, with its rapidly developing economy and expanding middle class, is becoming an increasingly important market for the aviation industry. AirAsia X’s decision to launch this new route is in response to rising travel demand, as both leisure and business travelers seek convenient, affordable flight options.
Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X, expressed his excitement about the new route, highlighting the strong early bookings and the airline’s confidence in Central Asia’s potential. He also pointed out that the route is part of AirAsia X’s broader strategy to promote affordable medium-haul travel while enhancing its global network. The launch of this service is in line with Malaysia’s “Visit Malaysia Year 2026” campaign, which aims to attract more international tourists, including those from Uzbekistan.
Moreover, Uzbekistan is working towards its ambitious goal of welcoming 15.8 million international visitors by 2025, a target that is supported by the opening of new routes like this one. AirAsia X’s direct connection between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur will provide a significant boost to tourism in Uzbekistan, helping to showcase the country’s unique cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and natural landscapes.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties Between Uzbekistan and Malaysia
This new flight route is more than just a business decision for AirAsia X; it also reflects the growing partnership between Uzbekistan and Malaysia, especially in trade, education, and tourism. The two nations have been working to deepen their bilateral ties, and this new service will provide enhanced opportunities for cooperation in various sectors. The ease of travel between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur will facilitate increased business interactions, cultural exchange, and academic collaboration.
Uzbekistan’s government has been making significant strides to develop the tourism sector, and this new route will play a vital role in achieving those goals. The Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur flights will not only boost inbound tourism to Uzbekistan but also support Malaysia’s tourism industry by attracting more visitors from Central Asia.
Special Launch Offers for Early Bookings
To celebrate the launch of the new route, AirAsia X is offering promotional fares for one-way flights from Tashkent to Kuala Lumpur, starting at UZS 2,719,000 (approximately USD 199), inclusive of all taxes and fees. This special offer is available for booking through the AirAsia MOVE app, airasia.com, or the airline’s official sales agent, AA Aviation Management Group, in Uzbekistan. The promotion is valid for bookings made by 3 August 2025, for travel between 15 October and 15 December 2025.
The fare includes a 7kg cabin baggage allowance and covers fuel surcharges, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. AirAsia X’s commitment to providing affordable and high-quality air travel is evident in this competitive pricing, which will surely appeal to both leisure and business travelers seeking a cost-effective way to connect between Uzbekistan and Malaysia.
AirAsia X is set to enhance regional connectivity with the launch of direct flights between Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, beginning in October. This new route will provide travelers with a seamless travel experience, promoting both tourism and trade between Central Asia and Southeast Asia. The strategic move is expected to foster stronger cultural and economic ties, benefiting both regions.
With the introduction of the Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur direct flights, AirAsia X is poised to significantly enhance travel connectivity between Central Asia and Southeast Asia. This new route not only caters to the growing demand for international travel from Uzbekistan but also strengthens the economic, cultural, and tourism ties between Uzbekistan and Malaysia. The seamless connections via Kuala Lumpur International Airport will provide Uzbek travelers with access to over 130 destinations worldwide, making this new service a valuable addition to AirAsia X’s expanding network. As both nations continue to foster deeper bilateral relations, the launch of this flight service is a positive step towards building stronger global connections.
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Batik Air has announced the launch of a new direct flight route between Samarinda, to Surabaya. This strategic addition to Batik Air’s domestic network is designed to improve accessibility between two vital regions in Indonesia. The route not only makes travel more convenient but also strengthens the airline’s position as a leading carrier within the archipelago.
Enhancing Domestic Travel Connectivity
Travel within Indonesia has always been an essential part of the nation’s economy and with the launch of the Samarinda-Surabaya direct flights, Batik Air is taking a significant step to improve domestic air connectivity.
Surabaya, known for its rich history and bustling urban environment, has long been a key destination for both domestic and international travelers. With the addition of this direct route, visitors from Samarinda and surrounding areas will now have a streamlined, quick connection to explore Surabaya’s vibrant tourism offerings, including its colonial-era architecture, extensive shopping options, and the surrounding natural beauty of East Java.
Tourism Growth Between Samarinda and Surabaya
Samarinda, a city surrounded by lush forests, rivers and natural parks, offers travelers a peaceful retreat with an abundance of cultural and natural attractions. On the other hand, Surabaya serves as an exciting urban escape with a rich cultural heritage, shopping malls, museums, and culinary hotspots.
This new flight route opens up opportunities to experience both the tranquil beauty of East Kalimantan and the urban excitement of Surabaya, all with a convenient and accessible flight option. Whether travelers are looking to explore Samarinda’s natural beauty or Surabaya’s cultural vibrancy. The direct connection will undoubtedly make both cities more accessible to a wider range of visitors.
Moreover, Surabaya has long been considered a gateway to East Java, and now, with Batik Air’s new flight route, it is poised to attract even more domestic and international tourists. As the tourism industry continues to grow, this direct flight will further solidify Surabaya as a regional tourism center.
Business Opportunities and Economic Exchange
In addition to tourism, the direct flights between Samarinda and Surabaya are set to open up new business opportunities. Both cities are vital economic hubs within Indonesia, each contributing to key industries in the region. Samarinda is an important center for industries such as forestry, mining and energy, while Surabaya is a thriving commercial port city, home to Indonesia’s second-largest seaport, Tanjung Perak.
With this new air connection, business professionals in sectors like manufacturing, trade, energy and agriculture will find it easier to attend meetings, conferences and trade shows in both cities. Furthermore, the flight will facilitate the exchange of goods and services between East Kalimantan and East Java, contributing to both regions’ economic development. It is anticipated that the enhanced connectivity will make it easier for businesses in both areas to collaborate, strengthening Indonesia’s position as a growing regional market.
Flight Details and Travel Convenience
Batik Air’s new direct flights between Samarinda and Surabaya will be offered regularly, making it convenient for travelers to plan their trips. The airline has emphasized its commitment to providing affordable and reliable travel options for all passengers, with both economy and premium class seating available. This flexibility ensures that business travelers and leisure tourists alike can find a flight option that suits their needs and budget.
Promoting Local Tourism and Regional Identity
As Batik Air continues to expand its network, the airline is playing a significant role in promoting Indonesia’s diverse tourism offerings. Samarinda is home to the beautiful Mahakam River and the nearby Kutai National Park, which offers eco-tourism opportunities that are perfect for nature enthusiasts. Surabaya, on the other hand, is rich in cultural heritage, with landmarks such as the House of Sampoerna and the famous Surabaya Zoo.
This new flight route serves as a bridge between the two regions, allowing travelers to experience different aspects of Indonesian life. From the untouched nature of East Kalimantan to the vibrant urban lifestyle of Surabaya, this new connection celebrates the country’s diversity while supporting the growth of its tourism industry.
Samarinda-Surabaya Flights: A Gateway to New Experiences
The direct flights between Samarinda and Surabaya will undoubtedly increase the frequency of travelers moving between these two dynamic cities. Not only will this route cater to the growing number of Indonesian tourists, but it will also attract international visitors who are eager to explore the lesser-known but equally beautiful parts of the country. For many, this flight will serve as the gateway to new experiences, from the stunning landscapes of East Kalimantan to the historical depth of Surabaya.
Batik Air’s Continued Commitment to Affordable Accessible Travel
Batik Air’s new route is a testament to the airline’s ongoing commitment to offering affordable travel options while enhancing accessibility to destinations that have traditionally been harder to reach. As the airline continues to grow, its focus on providing high-quality, budget-friendly services remains at the core of its mission.
Strengthening Domestic Connectivity
Batik Air’s launch of the direct flight route between Samarinda and Surabaya represents a significant milestone for both tourism and business travel. This new connection will undoubtedly lead to increased travel between East Kalimantan and East Java, contributing to the growth of both regions. By making it easier for travelers to explore the natural beauty of Samarinda and the cultural richness of Surabaya, Batik Air is helping to make Indonesia’s diverse destinations more accessible than ever before.
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