FOR the first time, a direct flight route from northern China, connecting Xi’an to Penang, has officially commenced operations.
Operated by Loong Air, the inaugural flight initiative was jointly organised by the Tourism Malaysia and Loong Air.
Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin hailed the milestone as a significant step in fostering stronger connections between Malaysia and China.
“This is Loong Air’s first flight to Penang, and Penang is now the airline’s second Malaysian destination after Kuala Lumpur,” Yeoh said during a welcoming ceremony at Penang International Airport (PIA) yesterday.
“This new direct route strengthens our cultural and economic ties, opening new opportunities for tourism and collaboration.
“It is a testament to Malaysia as a preferred destination for Chinese tourists, especially from northern China, following a series of direct flights established from southern China.
“Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, was instrumental in persuading Loong Air to fly to Malaysia during his sales mission to China back in 2023.”
Yeoh also thanked the Transport Ministry for their support as well for the opening of this new route, noting it was a fruition of close cooperation between the two ministries.
Describing Xi’an as the largest city in the northwest of China, Yeoh mentioned Xi’an has more than 3,100 years of history, and is rich with its ancient history and cultural landmarks.
“For Penang, known as the first entry point of the Straits of Malacca, this connection marks an important intersection between two Silk Road cities,” Yeoh said.
Regarding the flight schedule, Yeoh announced that Loong Air would operate twice weekly, on Mondays and Fridays, with plans to increase frequency after the first quarter of next year.
Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk Manoharan Periasamy noted the robust connectivity between Malaysia and China, with 476 flights from China to Malaysia operating weekly.
“This new route will further enhance efforts to promote Malaysia as a Muslim-friendly destination,” Manoharan said, adding that the initiative reflects positive synergy between both countries.
Vice-Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Penang Ding Qiao was glad for the new direct flight connecting Xi’an to Penang, pointing out it was a milestone for both sides.
In a press release, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai underscored the importance of the new route.
“This connection strengthens Penang’s position in the tourism industry and solidifies the state-preferred destination for Chinese travellers.
“With this new route, Penang now has direct connections to 20 international cities through 35 routes. These include not just major cities in China but also destinations such as Dubai, Doha, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta and others,” he said.
Analyzing direct flight frequencies, Wong noted a significant surge in flights from Chinese cities to Penang, with 61 weekly flights recorded in November 2024, up from 17 during the same period in 2023.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi