Penang is set to further strengthen its position as a key regional aviation hub with the launch of a new direct flight from another major city in China. Announced by Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, Wong Hon Wai, this new route will mark the eighth direct air link between Penang and China, enhancing travel, business, and cultural exchanges between the two destinations.

The announcement follows successful negotiations between Penang Global Tourism and a Chinese airline during the recent Routes Asia 2024 Forum. After multiple video conferences, both parties finalized the details, with the inaugural flight expected to commence during China’s May Day Golden Week—a peak travel season. The airline is currently awaiting final 
approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) before making an official announcement.

“This new direct flight route is expected to capitalize on the travel surge during China’s May Day Golden Week. It will further enhance connectivity between Penang and the China market, injecting new vitality into tourism, business exchanges, and cultural interactions,” said Wong. “This expansion reinforces Penang’s status as a premier international tourism destination and an essential aviation hub in the region.”

China Tourists Surge to New Heights
Penang currently enjoys direct flight connections to seven Chinese cities: Guangzhou, Xiamen, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Chongqing, and Xi’an. The upcoming route will add an eighth city to the list, strengthening Penang’s appeal as a prime destination for Chinese travelers.

Recent tourism data further highlights China’s growing importance to Penang’s tourism economy. February 2025 recorded a remarkable 118.03% year-on-year increase in Chinese tourist arrivals via international flights, reaching 33,151 visitors. When including travelers transiting through Kuala Lumpur or arriving via land, the actual number is even more significant. Notably, since January 2025, China has surpassed Singapore to become Penang’s second-largest international tourist market, following Indonesia.

Yangon-Penang Direct Flight to Launch in April
In addition to the new China flight, Penang will also welcome another regional connection next month. Myanmar Airways International (MAI) is set to launch a direct flight from Yangon to Penang on April 10, further expanding Penang’s Southeast Asian flight network and improving accessibility for travelers from Myanmar.

AirAsia Adjusts Routes: Penang-Hong Kong Flight to Be Suspended
However, Penang’s aviation landscape is also undergoing adjustments. AirAsia recently announced the suspension of eight routes, including four from Kota Kinabalu, two from Kuching, one from Kuala Lumpur, and one from Penang. The affected Penang route is the direct flight to Hong Kong, which will cease operations from April 12.

Commenting on the decision, Wong noted that Hong Kong-Penang flight frequencies have significantly increased over the past year, creating a highly competitive market.

“Since January this year, the number of direct flights between Hong Kong and Penang has increased to 22 per week,” Wong explained. “Previously, this route was served by AirAsia and Cathay Pacific. Since November 2024, Hong Kong Express Airways has also entered the market. In January 2024, only seven flights per week were available, but by January 2025, the number had surged to 22 weekly flights across three airlines.”

While AirAsia’s exit may seem like a setback, Wong emphasized that it reflects the airline’s strategic shift to explore new market opportunities. “This is a normal commercial decision in the aviation industry, where airlines adjust routes to optimize operations and profitability.”

A Dynamic Future for Penang’s Aviation Sector
With increasing international connectivity and a surge in inbound tourism, Penang’s aviation sector continues to thrive. The upcoming direct flight from China, coupled with the new Yangon connection, reflects the state’s proactive approach to strengthening its global travel links. While market adjustments like AirAsia’s route suspension are part of the evolving aviation landscape, Penang’s rising profile as a travel hub ensures that new opportunities will continue to emerge.

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