KLIA remains Asia-Pacific’s most connected megahub, fourth globally, according to OAG index

According to OAG’s 2026 Megahubs Index, KLIA’s capacity grew by 6.9 per cent, supported by the expansion of its airline network. — File picture by Choo Choy May

First Published: Wednesday, 23 Sep 2026 6:51 PM MYT

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 23 — Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) has retained its position as the world’s fourth most connected international airport while remaining the most connected megahub in Asia-Pacific.

According to OAG’s 2026 Megahubs Index, KLIA’s capacity grew by 6.9 per cent, supported by the expansion of its airline network.

Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said KLIA’s standing among the world’s most connected megahubs reflected the strength and breadth of its aviation network, supported by airline partners, airport teams and industry stakeholders. However, he said KLIA’s growth was not simply about adding more destinations, with greater connectivity needing to be matched by sufficient capacity and a seamless passenger experience.

“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 in a statement today.

To date, KLIA has welcomed seven new scheduled airlines and nine new routes, providing additional connections to destinations including Riyadh, Algeria and Jinan. Malaysia Airlines has also strengthened connectivity with Japan through its new direct Fukuoka-Kuala Lumpur service.

MAHB said the expansion is set to continue with Gulf Air, Hainan Airlines, ZIPAIR and Thai Vietjet scheduled to commence services later this year, while Lufthansa is set to return in October with five weekly flights between Frankfurt and Kuala Lumpur.

Mohd Izani said MAHB aims to further strengthen KLIA’s position as Asia-Pacific’s most connected megahub while ensuring service excellence keeps pace with its expanding network. Among recent improvements are upgraded check-in and self-service bag-drop facilities, enhanced kerbside traffic management through the Vehicle Access Management System (VAMS) and a new e-hailing system at Terminal 1.

MAHB has also introduced additional passenger trolleys, complimentary wheelchairs and baby strollers as well as family-friendly facilities, while the “Calm Room” and “Harimau Playground” have been introduced at Terminal 2. The airport operator said the combination of a stronger network, enhanced passenger experience and continued capacity investment would position KLIA to connect Malaysia with more destinations and travellers worldwide. — Bernama