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AirAsia X (AAX), Asia’s leading long-haul low-cost carrier, has announced a strategic partnership with the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) aimed at enhancing connectivity between Asia and Africa and driving tourism growth for both regions.
The collaboration coincides with the upcoming launch of AAX’s new direct flights connecting Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi, set to commence on 15 November 2024 with four weekly flights.
Today, the two institutions signed a collaborative agreement to promote the footprints of the airline to increase passage traffic, where Kenya is set to reap big from the Asian markets.
KTB CEO June Chepkemei disclosed that the collaboration would drive a substantial growth in tourism numbers to Kenya. “This enhanced connectivity will stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities for local businesses, showcasing Kenya as a key destination for global travellers, especially from Asia.
“By facilitating easier access to Nairobi, says Chepkemei, the country anticipates an increased tourism revenue and stronger cultural exchange, benefiting both Kenya’s tourism sector and its broader economy,” Chepkemei remarked
The Asia Pacific region is a key source market for Kenya the region saw over 320,000 travellers into the country in 2023, with India, China and Japan among the top drivers of visitor arrivals.

“Our goal through this collaboration is to ensure that we have more tourists coming from Malaysia and other regional destinations to Kenya,” Chepkemei stated.
The partnership between AAX and the KTB includes joint promotional activities, coordinated marketing campaigns, and collaborative efforts to enhance travel experiences. It aims to leverage the strengths of both organizations to attract more tourists and stimulate economic growth in both countries.
Moreover, in alignment with Malaysia's upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, this new route will bolster Malaysia’s appeal as a premier travel destination offering diverse experiences. Kuala Lumpur will serve as a key gateway for tourists from Nairobi, granting them direct access to Malaysia’s vibrant attractions, including its cultural landmarks, scenic landscapes, and thriving culinary scene
Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X said that the airline was excited to launch the new direct route to Nairobi from next month.
“This is a major milestone in our mission to connect Asia with Africa and opens up a world of travel possibilities between the two continents. Our partnership with KTB demonstrates our commitment to expanding travel opportunities and boosting tourism. This new route will play a crucial role in Kenya’s tourism growth and create new connections for travellers. For our other key routes such as Australia and China, Nairobi will now be easily accessible, offering new adventures in Africa and enhanced travel options via Kuala Lumpur. This route not only strengthens our global network but also supports the tourism goals of both Kenya and Malaysia,” said Ismail.
As part of the partnership, AAX is offering special fares for travellers from Nairobi to Kuala Lumpur for KES 25,788 (USD 199) all-in* one-way in Economy or KES 64,665 (USD 499) to experience AAX’s award-winning Premium Flatbed**. Bookings are available now through 6 October 2024, for the travel period from 15 November 2024 until 30 June 2025.
By connecting Nairobi directly with Kuala Lumpur, AAX aims to capture a larger share of this market, providing Asian travellers with more accessible options to explore Kenya’s unique attractions and contributing to the region’s growing tourism sector.