AirAsia expands with new Dalat and Chiang Rai routes

AirAsia has strengthened its regional network by resuming direct flights between Dalat, Vietnam, and Kuala Lumpur, as well as launching a new route connecting Kuala Lumpur to Chiang Rai, Thailand.

These flights enhance accessibility for tourists across Southeast Asia, furthering AirAsia’s commitment to regional connectivity and ease of travel.

Expanded routes bring fresh travel opportunities

AirAsia’s new route from Kuala Lumpur to Chiang Rai, launched on 2 November, is the only international flight to Chiang Rai established since 2019.

This new service provides a convenient gateway for travellers to experience the natural beauty of Northern Thailand, a region bordering Myanmar and Laos and known for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture.

The flight operates three times a week, departing Kuala Lumpur at 11:25 and arriving in Chiang Rai at 13:15 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Resuming flights from Kuala Lumpur to Dalat also reconnects travellers with Vietnam’s “City of Eternal Spring,” a popular destination famed for its cool climate, French-inspired architecture, and scenic landscapes.

The service operates four times weekly, departing Kuala Lumpur at 11:00 and arriving in Dalat at 12:10 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

These routes are supported by Tourism Malaysia, which held a warm welcome event at Kuala Lumpur International Airport to celebrate the arrival of passengers from Dalat.

Deputy Director General of Promotion II, Lee Thai Hung, remarked, “These new routes reaffirm Malaysia’s status as a hub for tourism in ASEAN, enhancing travel options for both Malaysians and international visitors.”

Convenient flight schedules to enhance travel flexibility

The routes between Kuala Lumpur and these scenic destinations will operate on an A320 aircraft with a seating capacity of 180, designed to accommodate growing demand.

Flight Schedule (Kuala Lumpur – Dalat)

• Flight AK571 departs Kuala Lumpur at 11:00, arriving in Dalat at 12:10, operating on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
• Flight AK572 departs Dalat at 12:40, arriving in Kuala Lumpur at 15:55.

Flight Schedule (Kuala Lumpur – Chiang Rai)

• Flight AK871 departs Kuala Lumpur at 11:25, arriving in Chiang Rai at 13:15, operating on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
• Flight AK872 departs Chiang Rai at 13:45, arriving in Kuala Lumpur at 17:55.

As regional travel resumes, these schedules offer flexibility and convenience for both leisure and business travellers seeking new experiences in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia.

These new connections are expected to boost Malaysia’s inbound tourism. In 2024, as of September, Malaysia recorded over 1.2 million tourist arrivals from Thailand and more than 265,000 from Vietnam.

With AirAsia’s added routes, the country anticipates further growth in visitors eager to explore Malaysia’s attractions.

By expanding its regional network, AirAsia not only caters to the increasing demand but also strengthens Malaysia’s tourism position, particularly in the ASEAN region.

The collaboration between AirAsia and Tourism Malaysia reflects ongoing efforts to promote Malaysia as a top destination, with diverse attractions from bustling cityscapes to serene natural escapes.

For more information and to book flights, visit AirAsia.com.