Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai, announced yet another encouraging development for Penang’s tourism sector.
“We are delighted to share that beginning 28 December 2025, China Southern Airlines will increase its Guangzhou–Penang direct flights from two to three daily services. This milestone makes China Southern the first Chinese airline to operate three daily direct flights to Penang, marking a significant step forward for our connectivity with South China.
“As we prepare to welcome Malaysia Tourism Year and the Medical Tourism Year, this expansion could not be more timely. Enhanced air access is a powerful driver of tourism growth, and with Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport—one of China’s top three aviation hubs—Penang stands to gain even greater visibility and competitive strength in the South China market. Travellers may already begin planning, as tickets for the new flights are available on China Southern Airlines’ official website.”
The newly added direct service CZ5047 will operate daily, departing Guangzhou at 1:55 PM and arriving in Penang at 6:00 PM. This complements the existing flights departing at 5:05 PM (arriving 9:00 PM) and 6:45 PM (arriving 10:45 PM).
Similarly, the outbound Penang–Guangzhou service CZ5048 will depart Penang daily at 7:00 PM, arriving in Guangzhou at 10:50 PM, alongside the existing 9:05 AM and 11:55 PM departures.
YB Wong Hon Wai
“With this addition, travellers will enjoy a more flexible range of flight timings between Guangzhou and Penang, making it easier than ever to plan seamless and personalised journeys,” Wong said.
He noted that the increased frequency reflects the strong performance of the route:
“This demonstrates the rising popularity of Penang among travellers from Guangzhou and across southern China. Penang’s blend of heritage, culture, cuisine, nature, and world-class medical services continues to capture the hearts of Chinese visitors.”
Wong also highlighted the broader benefits of Guangzhou’s role as a major aviation hub:
“With connections spanning every continent, Guangzhou offers easy transit for travellers from cities without direct access to Penang. Increasing the Guangzhou–Penang frequency from two to three flights daily not only strengthens our accessibility but also enhances Penang’s position as a gateway for leisure travellers, medical visitors, business delegates, and cultural exchange programmes.”
With the latest increase, direct flights from major Chinese cities to Penang will reach 79 weekly services—including 21 from Guangzhou, 14 from Shanghai, 7 each from Shenzhen, Xiamen, and Chengdu, 21 from Hong Kong, and 2 from Xi’an.
“This expansive network gives Chinese travellers more choice than ever, reinforcing Penang’s strong appeal in China’s largest urban markets,” he added.
Looking ahead, Wong emphasised that 2026 presents exceptional travel potential for Chinese visitors, with three major Golden Weeks—Chinese New Year, Labour Day, and National Day—as well as four long-weekend holidays.
“The upcoming 9-day Chinese New Year holiday, the longest in history, offers tremendous opportunities for outbound travel. China Southern’s expansion to three daily flights perfectly aligns with these peak travel periods, providing Chinese travellers with more convenience, flexibility, and opportunities to explore Penang’s rich experiences.”
Source – Office of the State Tourism and Creative Economy