Kuala Lumpur:AirAsia Group Bhd is planning to start flights to Bahrain by March 2027, contingent upon regional conditions. The company has appointed a board of directors for its Bahrain operations, marking a significant step in its regional expansion strategy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the newly established board will be chaired by Dr. Serra Kirdar, with Datuk Fam Lee Ee serving as vice-chairman. The board also includes Dr. Faisal Khalid Kanoo, Nawaf Al Zayani, Akram Safa, Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, and Tan Sri Jamaludin Ibrahim, all serving as non-executive directors.

This development follows a letter of intent signed in November 2025 between Capital A Bhd and Bahrain's Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, as well as AirAsia's February 2026 announcement naming Bahrain as its Middle East hub. Tony Fernandes, AirAsia Group advisor and Capital A CEO, emphasized Bahrain's strategic importance as a gateway connecting ASEAN with the Middle East and Europe.

Fernandes acknowledged that the geopolitical situation in the region has necessitated adjustments to their initial plans. However, he affirmed the group's unwavering commitment to Bahrain, highlighting the appointment of the distinguished board as a testament to this commitment.