Due to operational issues, British Airways has cancel direct flights to Kuala Lumpur from London Heathrow, until 1 April 2025. Malaysia Airlines is currently the only airline with direct flights from London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur. So, when British Airways announced its non-stop service, we were pleased and booked to travel on this route in May 2025. We visit Malaysia at least once a year, so we’re familiar with this route.
Now, the inaugural flight has been cancelled leaving many people affected. And with BA’s track record, we’re keeping a close watch and wonder if it will resume on 2 April 2025. We are currently not affected by this, however, lots of people are. So what are your options?
What are your options?
If your BA flight to Kuala Lumpur falls between 10 November 2024 and 1 April 2025, you’ll be rebooked on another route and carrier. British Airways, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific (BA policy) or Malaysia Airlines (BA policy) all fall within the rebooking policy.
With the re-booking there are restrictions to be aware of too. Malaysia Airlines is the only direct option, however, booking on this option will depend on your fare class. Cathay Pacific will only rebook you in Economy for the Hong Kong to Kuala Lumpur leg, even if you originally booked Business Class. Always check the details before accepting rebookings.
If you’re exploring other ways to reach Kuala Lumpur, here are a few we’ve tried:
Qatar Airways via Doha: A good choice
Qatar Airways is probably our favourite. The Business Class product is superior, and the service is excellent. The layover at Hamad International Airport is hassle-free and the lounges are great. However, after travelling this route countless times, the transit through Doha can be tiresome. Read our review from KUL to DOH in Business Class to find out more. Tip: Double-check that all the flights of your journey are on Qatar Airways, as part of the journey may be booked on Malaysia Airlines – read our Business Class experience.
Singapore Airlines via Singapore: Comfort and Luxury
Flying via Singapore with Singapore Airlines takes longer and like Qatar Airways, the airline’s Business Class product is pretty good. Changi Airport, with its gardens, spas, and shopping, makes layovers enjoyable. It’s almost worth the extra time just for the airport experience. Read our review on Singapore Airlines Business Class.
Malaysia Airlines: The Only Direct Route
Malaysia Airlines is still the only direct option from London to Kuala Lumpur. We’ve flown with them many times. Their Business Class offers good service and lie-flat seats, but it lacks the premium experience you get with Qatar or Singapore Airlines. If time is your priority, Malaysia Airlines remains the quickest choice. Read our review on Malaysia Airlines Business Class.
Options
Choosing between these alternatives depends on your priorities. Are you looking for the quickest route? The most luxurious experience? Or are you trying to balance cost and convenience?
| Airline | Route | Duration | Cost in Business* | Notable Perks |
| Qatar Airways | LHR – DOH – KUL | 15 – 17 hours | £3.5-£5k | Superior service, great layover airport |
| Singapore Airlines | LHR-SIN-KUL | 15 – 16 hours | £5.5-£6k | Great airline, shorter flight to Kuala Lumpur from Singapore |
| Malaysia Airlines | LHR-KUL | 11 – 13 hours | £4k-£9k | Direct route |
What’s next after British Airways cancels direct flights to Kuala Lumpur?
British Airways might have cancel direct flights to Kuala Lumpur for now, but we do hope BA fixes its operational issues before our May trip. If not, we may need to choose between Malaysia Airlines or connecting flights via Doha or Singapore. After our last experience, we’re hesitant to fly Malaysia Airlines Business Class again. However, we’ll have to weigh the convenience of a direct flight against taking a longer route for a better overall flying experience. Would you take a longer route to have a better flying experience?
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