GEORGE TOWN, April 9 — The new direct flight between Penang and Chongqing underscores the state’s strategic efforts to strengthen its presence in the China market and further enhance air connectivity with Western China, injecting fresh momentum into regional tourism and economic exchanges.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the official launch of the Chongqing-Penang flight, operated by Chongqing Airlines today, marks an important milestone in the state’s route expansion into inland China and signifies a deepening of Penang’s tourism footprint toward western China.
“With the aviation network becoming increasingly comprehensive, this route is expected to attract more Chinese travellers to Penang, further boosting tourism, cultural and economic exchanges between the two regions.
“Previously, there was a chartered flight between Chongqing and Penang operated by another airline, but moving into 2026, this air link has been upgraded from charter services to scheduled direct flights operated by Chongqing Airlines,” he said in a statement today.
Wong stressed that amid global uncertainties, particularly in West Asia, Penang must diversify its tourism source markets and prioritise East Asia, where cross-border travel remains more viable, thereby maximising the sector’s economic potential.
He also noted that Chongqing, built amid mountains with undulating cityscapes and known as the “8D Magic City” for its unique blend of modern urban life and natural topography, offers a striking contrast to Penang’s coastal charm, heritage-rich George Town and natural attractions, providing travellers with diverse experiences across both cities.
In addition, he said the launch timing coincides with Penang’s upcoming durian season, which is expected to begin earlier than usual this year due to warmer weather, and the direct flight will give travellers from western China easier access to one of Malaysia’s most sought-after seasonal attractions.
Looking ahead, Wong said a memorandum of understanding between Penang Global Tourism and Chongqing Airlines will pave the way for deeper collaboration, including joint promotions and initiatives to boost visitor flows between the two regions.
Earlier, the inaugural Chongqing-Penang direct flight touched down at Penang International Airport at 12.30 am today. The flight will operate four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
To date, Penang maintains scheduled direct flights from eight Chinese cities, namely Guangzhou, Xiamen, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Qingdao and now Chongqing.
