AIRASIA X is expanding its network with the introduction of direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing.

Starting June 22, 2012, the carrier will operate four-weekly services from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Beijing Capital International Airport. Frequency will increase to a daily from August 6, 2012.

AirAsia X’s Beijing-Kuala Lumpur flights will be operated using the Airbus A330-300 aircraft, with a configuration of 12 premium-flatbed and 365 economy seats.

Azran Osman-Rani, AirAsia X CEO, said: “China is a key market for AirAsia X, and our entry into Beijing supports the Malaysian government’s Economic Transformation Programme, which seeks to enhance connectivity between the two countries. The launch will allow for new segments of travellers between Malaysia, South-east Asia and China.”

Kathleen Tan, AirAsia’s group head of commercial, said: “China National Tourism Administration (recently) named Malaysia as one of the preferred destinations for Chinese tourists. The number of Malaysians travelling to China has also grown tremendously.”

“We are confident travel demand to Beijing will be strong, and (also) hope many (Chinese) will take the opportunity to visit Malaysia, and use it as a gateway to destinations across the region,” she added.

Meanwhile, AirAsia X has decided to suspend flights to Tianjin, effective June 21, 2012. All affected customers will be given the option of switching their bookings to the Beijing route.