PUTRAJAYA, July 9 – Malaysia Airlines has expanded its China network to nine destinations with the launch of direct flights to Shenzhen and Changsha, as demand for travel between Malaysia and China continues to grow.
The new routes connect Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) with two major Chinese cities, offering more options for both leisure and business travellers while supporting stronger economic and tourism links between the two countries.
The airline began its Kuala Lumpur-Shenzhen service with the inaugural flight MH522 departing KLIA Terminal 1 on 1 July 2026, followed by the launch of the Kuala Lumpur-Changsha route on 8 July 2026.
Both services operate up to seven times weekly using Boeing 737-8 aircraft.
Bryan Foong, Chief Executive Officer of Airline Business from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said the expansion would strengthen Malaysia Airlines’ presence in China while supporting greater connectivity between both countries.
“The launch of our services to Shenzhen and Changsha marks a proud milestone in our continuous efforts to expand our network across China. By connecting Kuala Lumpur to these high-growth regional hubs, we are offering travellers greater convenience and flexibility while supporting stronger business, tourism and people-to-people ties between our two countries,” he said.
The new routes come as Malaysia continues efforts to boost tourism arrivals under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, with visa-free arrangements between both countries expected to support travel demand.
With the addition of Shenzhen and Changsha, Malaysia Airlines now serves nine gateways in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Hong Kong, Taipei and Chengdu.
The airline said the expansion also supports Kuala Lumpur’s role as a regional aviation hub connecting travellers across Asia and beyond.
