AirAsia Aviation Group, soon to be consolidated with AirAsia X (D7, Kuala Lumpur International) and rebranded back into AirAsia Group, is targeting a Middle East hub launch in the second half of 2026. Group CEO Bo Lingam confirmed plans to initially operate Kuala Lumpur International to Bahrain International flights, with Bangkok Don Mueang connections under consideration, utilising Bahrain as a springboard for services to the UK and Europe. Lingam cited Bahrain's competitive rates and uncongested infrastructure as key advantages over Dubai International or Abu Dhabi International. The group is evaluating the establishment of a Bahrain-based AOC as well.

To support this expansion and growth in Indonesia and the Philippines, the group expects to induct 11 new aircraft in 2026 - comprising four A321-200NX(LR)s and seven A321-200NX - alongside 15 to 30 leased A320-200s.