Penang continues to strengthen its position as a leading tourism and medical travel destination with the expansion of direct air connectivity from China.
The Penang International Airport (PIA) warmly welcomed the China Southern Airlines’ launch of a third daily direct flight between Guangzhou and Penang, further reinforcing Penang’s appeal to travellers from South China and beyond.
Effective yesterday, December,28, 2025, China Southern Airlines increased its Guangzhou–Penang services from two to three daily flights, making it the first Chinese airline to operate three direct flights daily to Penang.
This timely expansion provides a significant tourism boost ahead of the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year and Medical Tourism Year, facilitating greater access for leisure travellers, medical tourists, business visitors and MICE delegates.
The newly added third daily flight arrived at Penang International Airport at 6pm yesterday, receiving a ceremonial water salute. The welcoming event was attended by Penang Global Tourism CEO Ooi Chok Yan and Ms Jenny Fang, General Manager of China Southern Airlines’ Penang Office, symbolising the strong partnership between Penang and one of China’s largest carriers.
Earlier in mid-December, the State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai met with Ms Jenny Fang, during which both parties exchanged views on the increased flight frequency and the importance of enhanced air connectivity in driving tourism growth and people-to-people exchanges between Penang and China.
“China Southern Airlines’ increased services, linking Penang International Airport with Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, one of China’s three major aviation hubs, represent a strong vote of confidence in Penang’s tourism infrastructure, healthcare excellence and destination readiness. This move significantly enhances Penang’s visibility and competitiveness in the South China market,” he said.
Beyond China Southern Airlines, other Chinese carriers operating direct flights to Penang have also played a crucial role in strengthening bilateral connectivity. These airlines connect Penang with major Chinese cities, enabling smoother travel flows and supporting a wide range of sectors including tourism, medical travel, education, trade and investment. The growing presence of Chinese airlines not only increases visitor arrivals but also stimulates local spending, creates employment opportunities, and benefits hospitality, retail, transport and service industries across the state.
Collectively, the expanded air network from China positions Penang as a strategic gateway to northern Malaysia, supporting sustainable tourism growth and contributing positively to the overall economy.
Among the other Chinese Airlines flying to PIA are Juneyao Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, Spring Airlines – Launching new direct flights from Shanghai (daily) and Guangzhou (weekly) to Penang starting early 2026, Sichuan Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines and Loong Air.