KLIA still Asia Pacific's most connected megahub, retains 4th spot globally

KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) has retained its position as Asia Pacific's most connected megahub and the world's fourth most connected international airport, according to OAG's 2026 Megahubs Index.

OAG said KLIA's capacity grew 6.9 per cent, supported by an expanding airline network that has added seven new scheduled carriers and nine new routes so far this year.

The new links include Riyadh, Algeria and Jinan, while Malaysia Airlines has strengthened connectivity with Japan through its new direct Fukuoka-Kuala Lumpur service.

Further expansion is expected with Gulf Air, Hainan Airlines, Zipair, Thai Vietjet and Lufthansa scheduled to begin or resume services later this year.

Lufthansa is set to return in October with five weekly Frankfurt-Kuala Lumpur services.

Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said KLIA's growth must be matched by improvements in capacity and passenger experience.

"KLIA's standing among the world's most connected Megahubs reflects the strength and breadth of our aviation network, built through the combined efforts of our airline partners, airport teams and industry stakeholders," he said.

"But growth is meaningful only when it is matched by the right experience and the right capacity to support it. That is why our focus at KLIA goes beyond connectivity. We are working across the entire passenger journey to make KLIA more convenient, efficient and welcoming."

He said Malaysia Airports aimed to further strengthen KLIA's position as Asia Pacific's most connected Megahub while ensuring service standards kept pace with its growth.

The airport has rolled out a range of upgrades, including improved check-in and self-service baggage drop facilities, enhanced kerbside traffic management through the Vehicle Access Management System and a new e-hailing system at Terminal 1.

Other improvements include additional passenger trolleys, complimentary wheelchairs and baby strollers, family-friendly facilities, as well as a Calm Room and Harimau Playground at Terminal 2.

New attractions such as Rimba and Heritage Walls are also adding nature and culture-inspired elements to the passenger experience.