CHINA Southern Airlines will increase its daily flights from Guangzhou to Penang from one to two per day starting Sept 1 this year.
Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the increase would significantly enhance accessibility for residents of Guangzhou and the entire Greater Bay Area to Penang.
“The increase in frequency marks a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts between Penang and China Southern Airlines.
“It not only signifies an increase in flight options but also underscores the strong partnership and cooperative efforts between Guangzhou and Penang in promoting tourism, business dealings, and economic growth,” Wong said during an announcement dinner at Elite House recently.
He added that China Southern Airlines’ decision to increase daily direct flights from one to two reflects robust demand for both business and leisure travel between Penang and Guangzhou.
China Southern Airlines has a longstanding history of nearly 33 years operating the Guangzhou-Penang direct route.
“Since its inception in 1991, this route has not only been one of China Southern Airlines’ earliest international routes but also China’s first direct flight route to and from Penang.
“Despite challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, global aviation suspension, and subsequent resumption, China Southern Airlines has gradually increased flights from three times weekly to the current daily service. With flight occupancy rates averaging around 90%, this route demonstrates strong demand and strategic importance, leading to the decision to elevate service to twice daily,” Wong noted.
Wong also highlighted the extension of the visa-free policy for Chinese nationals visiting Malaysia, which was originally set to expire on Nov 30, 2024, but has been extended to 2026 through bilateral negotiations between Malaysia and China.
“The increased flights complement this extended policy, further stimulating tourist arrivals to Penang and subsequent economic activities,” he said.
Additionally, Wong pointed out that among China’s three major gateway hub airports, flights to Penang are available at two: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
“China ranks as the third largest tourist group visiting Penang, following Indonesia and Singapore.
“In 2024, marking the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations, there has been a significant increase in Chinese tourists visiting Penang.
“For instance, in April this year, Penang welcomed 5,655 Chinese tourists, marking a 162.2% increase compared to the same period last year. By May this year, this number grew to 7,247 Chinese tourists, a 211.7% increase from the previous year,” he said.