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The iconic flag carrier reconnects the UK with Malaysia and Georgia and expands in Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Italy, marking a turning point in global air travel recovery.

In a strategic leap forward, British Airways has unveiled a sweeping expansion of its global network, introducing pivotal routes to Kuala Lumpur and Tbilisi while enhancing flight frequencies to Tokyo and unveiling new destinations in Italy and the Middle East. This dynamic initiative reestablishes vital travel links between the UK, Asia, and Europe and affirms the airline’s unwavering commitment to global connectivity, cultural exchange, and tourism resurgence.

With the summer 2025 schedule now in full swing, the launch of these routes signals a return to tradition with a modern edge—restoring ties with cherished destinations while expanding the airline’s role in international aviation diplomacy.

Reconnecting with Malaysia: A Strategic Return to Kuala Lumpur

After a five-year hiatus, British Airways made a triumphant return to Kuala Lumpur this week, with Flight BA033 departing London Heathrow at 21:10 local time on April 1 and arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 17:20 the next day. The relaunch was marked with fanfare, with passengers on the inaugural service welcomed with curated goodie bags and thoughtful mementos.

British Airways returns to Kuala Lumpur

The route is now operated daily using the state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Customers can choose from four premium cabin options: World Traveller (economy), World Traveller Plus (premium economy), Club World (business class), and the exclusive First cabin. Return fares begin at £574, catering to leisure travellers and discerning corporate flyers.

This restoration of the Kuala Lumpur service reaffirms British Airways’ steadfast investment in the Asia-Pacific region. The route has been strategically timed to enable seamless onward travel through an expanded codeshare partnership with Malaysia Airlines. Travellers can now book single-ticket connections to 17+ regional destinations, including Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand—unlocking a vast network across Southeast Asia and Oceania.

“Malaysia has always held a special place in our network, and its return is not just symbolic but a strategic decision to boost connectivity between the UK and Southeast Asia,” said a British Airways spokesperson. “This route strengthens ties that span business, tourism, and culture—aligning with our broader regional investment strategy.”

Further expanding its Asian footprint, British Airways has resumed flights from London Gatwick to Bangkok and enhanced its codeshare agreement with Bangkok Airways. This alliance now facilitates smooth access to premier destinations such as Koh Samui, Krabi, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap.

Touching Down in Tbilisi: A Gateway Between East and West

British Airways has also proudly returned to Georgia, reinstating flights to the vibrant capital of Tbilisi after a 12-year absence. Flight BA1414 departed from London Heathrow at 21:25 local time on March 30, touching down in Tbilisi at 05:30 the following morning.

British Airways Arrives in Tbilisi

With its rich history, cobblestone streets, and claim to being the birthplace of wine, Tbilisi serves as a vital bridge between Europe and Asia. As Georgia opens its arms to global travellers, British Airways is poised to be the airline of choice for those eager to experience the region’s culture, natural beauty, and legendary hospitality.

The new route will operate four times weekly from London Heathrow, with return fares starting at a competitive £244. Passengers can travel in Euro Traveller (economy) or Club Europe (business class), enjoying services tailored for comfort, convenience, and class. Club Europe travellers benefit from lounge access, complimentary full meal service, priority boarding, and enhanced baggage allowances.

“Georgia’s blend of East and West, past and present, makes it an irresistible destination. We’re thrilled to give our customers the opportunity to explore Tbilisi once again,” shared a BA executive. “This move is part of our vision to restore lesser-served routes that offer rich travel experiences.”

Doubling Down on Japan: British Airways Expands Tokyo Service

British Airways Haneda Team

As part of its broader international growth plan, British Airways has doubled its service to Tokyo Haneda, increasing it from one to two daily flights starting 30 March 2025. This bolstered schedule strengthens business and leisure travel between the UK and Japan—one of the world’s most vital economic corridors.

One of the two daily flights is operated by the Airbus A350, a next-generation aircraft boasting reduced fuel consumption and enhanced passenger comfort. The aircraft includes British Airways’ cutting-edge Club Suite in its business class cabin—a privacy-first experience with lie-flat beds, direct aisle access, and generous personal space.

A Taste of Italy: Three New Routes Join the BA Network

British Airways will also unveil three new Italian routes in May, connecting more corners of the Bel Paese to its network than ever before. These include:

Rimini (Adriatic Coast) – launching 15 May from London Heathrow
Salerno (Amalfi Coast) – launching 22 May from London Gatwick
Olbia (Sardinia) – launching 25 May from London City

With these additions, the airline now serves 19 Italian destinations—more than any other European country on its map. Each route has been curated to support leisure and heritage travel, immersing customers in Italy’s coastal charm, culinary treasures, and cultural wealth.

Strengthening the Gulf Link: More Flights to Riyadh

Further afield, British Airways is responding to the growing demand for Middle Eastern travel by nearly doubling its flights to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The increase includes more than 80,000 additional seats annually, opening new channels for trade, tourism, and religious pilgrimage.

These flights are designed with optimal timings to connect easily to BA’s extensive network of 200+ destinations worldwide, providing UK-based travellers—and Saudi residents—greater flexibility and choice.

A Confident Step Into the Future of Aviation

British Airways’ 2025 summer schedule paints a bold picture of ambition, resilience, and responsiveness to passenger demand. These strategic route additions and frequency increases reflect a confident resurgence in global travel and a rekindling of international relations long fostered by air connectivity.

“We are incredibly proud to bring Malaysia and Georgia back to our network,” said Neil Chernoff, Chief Planning and Strategy Officer at British Airways. “Our teams have worked tirelessly to restore and introduce routes that not only serve popular destinations but also enhance opportunities for business, cultural exchange, and exploration.”

He continued, “From the birthplace of wine to one of Asia’s most dynamic capitals, our renewed schedule gives travellers more reasons than ever to discover the world with us.”

With over 200 destinations served and a growing portfolio of partnerships, British Airways remains a trusted flag bearer for the UK and a vital link in the global travel chain.