The Penang International Airport (PIA) has been named the recipient of the CAPA – Centre for Aviation’s Asia Small/Medium Airport of the Year award.
The prestigious award was announced during the CAPA Asia Airline Leader Summit held at New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido, Japan. According to CAPA, Penang International Airport was recognised for its exceptional operational efficiency, innovative services, and vital role in connecting communities and driving regional economic growth, setting a high standard for small and medium-sized airports across Asia.
This is not only a strong endorsement of Penang International Airport’s operational performance and service standards, but also an important milestone in Penang’s continued advancement as an aviation hub. An airport is more than a gateway connecting a city to the world. It is a vital link for tourism, trade, investment and the movement of people, as well as an important piece of infrastructure supporting regional economic development.
Sharing the much welcomed news was Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai.
“In recent years, Penang International Airport has continued to expand its international connectivity, enhance the passenger experience, and strengthen air links between Penang and major cities across Asia. Today’s recognition by CAPA is a testament to the airport’s continued efforts in operational efficiency, innovation, connectivity and regional economic contribution, which have earned growing recognition within the international aviation industry.
“This honour belongs to every member of the Penang International Airport team who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, as well as to all partners who have contributed to the development of Penang’s aviation ecosystem.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations and appreciation to the entire Penang International Airport team. This recognition from the Asian aviation industry belongs not only to Penang today, but also marks a promising new chapter in Penang’s journey ahead,” he said.
PIA will also receive its direct flight by Hainan Airlines on Oct 11 and subsequently another direct flight from Batam, Indonesia on Oct 18 via Batik Air.
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Meanwhile, other winners of the CAPA 2026 Aviation Awards are as follows –
CAPA’s Asia Small/Medium Airport – Penang International Airport
CAPA’s Global Sustainability Airport of the Year – London Stanstead Airport
CAPA’s Asia Airline Sustainability Award – Air New Zealand
CAPA’s Asia Low Cost/Hybrid Airline – VietJet Air
CAPA’s Asia Airline Executive of the Year – Walter Cho, Chairman & CEO of Korean Air and Hanjin Group
CAPA’s Global Airline Sustainability Award – KLM Royal Dutch Airlines