AirAsia, signified by the flight code AK, has expanded its offerings, introducing two direct air routes from the Malaysian cities of Kuala Lumpur and Kuching to Pontianak, Indonesia. This development furthers its reputation as the airline with the most extensive network connecting these two countries. It also upholds AirAsia’s dedication to enhancing regional connectivity and fostering economic growth throughout the region.
Upon its return, flight AK1782 from Pontianak received a warm reception at Kuching International Airport. The occasion was celebrated with cultural performances and attending guests from Pontianak were welcomed by dignitaries, including Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, YB Datuk Snowdan Lawan, and AirAsia Malaysia CEO, Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra. Representatives from various Malaysia Airports, government departments and private hospitals in Kuching also attended the event.
In Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2, passengers on the inaugural flight AK491 from Pontianak were greeted by Tourism Malaysia and members of the AirAsia Management.
These flights are the first international services to take place at Pontianak’s Supadio Airport since it regained its international status in June 2025. This significant event involved a special welcoming ceremony for dignitaries, headed by the Governor of West Kalimantan, Drs Ria Norsan, and the Malaysian Consul in Pontianak, En Azizul Zekri Abdul Rahim.
Minister for Transport Sarawak, YB Dato’ Sri Lee Kim Shin, expressed his delight regarding the reinstatement of the Kuching-Pontianak route after a five-year pause. He emphasised the positive impact of this move, which will substantially reduce travel times, boost tourism, and strengthen connections between Sarawak and West Kalimantan.
AirAsia is proud of its recent route expansions, with Indonesia remaining a key market for the airline. CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, highlighted the significance of reintroducing the Pontianak route, which will increase convenience for passengers and open up new opportunities for tourism and business between Malaysia and Indonesia.
CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board, Mdm Sharzede Salleh Askor, expressed her excitement over the reinstatement of direct air connectivity between Kuching and Pontianak. This development will make travel more convenient for those in West Kalimantan, strengthen Sarawak’s role as the gateway to Borneo, and attract more visitors from Pontianak and beyond.
Currently, AirAsia Malaysia serves 18 destinations in Indonesia from Kuala Lumpur, with a new route to Banjarmasin set to commence on 20 October 2025.
What is the significance of the new AirAsia routes?
These routes not only improve travel convenience but also open up new opportunities for tourism and business between Malaysia and Indonesia.
What other Indonesian cities does AirAsia Malaysia connect with?
AirAsia Malaysia currently connects with 18 Indonesian cities, including Jakarta, Bali (Denpasar), Medan, Yogyakarta, and more.
What’s the impact of reinstating the Kuching-Pontianak route?
This development will reduce travel times, boost tourism, and strengthen connections between Sarawak and West Kalimantan.
