Flight D7536 has touched down at Kansai International Airport as AirAsia X launches a new service to Osaka.

The third largest city by population after Tokyo and Yokohama, Osaka serves as a gateway to the popular historical city of Kyoto and Kobe, both of which are accessible in less than 30 minutes by the highly efficient local rail network.

The new Kuala Lumpur–Osaka  route is AirAsia X’s sixteenth destination to date and its second destination in Japan, after Tokyo.

Effective immediately, AirAsia X will fly four times a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday into one of Japan’s main commercial centres.

Guests on the inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur LCCT were given a loud send-off in the form of a Japanese Drum Performance prior to departure in addition to a special AirAsia X gift pack and Japanese snacks.

Passengers were greeted by Yuru-kyara mascots

Speaking at the official launch ceremony, Azran Osman-Rani, chief executive officer, AirAsia X, said: “Brand affinity for the AirAsia X brand remains at an all time high, with demand also returning to pre-tsunami levels.

“We are grateful for the enthusiastic response we are receiving from the people of Osaka and will continue to be here for a long time to come.

He added: “The route would be a strong feeder for our guests intending to connect onwards either domestically or internationally from Osaka.

“Similarly, guests from Japan and surrounding regions would be able to fly into Kuala Lumpur hub and connect onwards to AirAsia’s extensive network of over 165 routes in South East Asia and beyond.”