KOTA KINABALU: The arrival of Sabah’s first-ever direct flight from Chongqing has significantly improved the air connections between Sabah and China and is expected to promote increased tourism in advance of Visit Malaysia 2026.
Chongqing Airlines began its inaugural flight to Kota Kinabalu International Airport at 11:15 PM on Thursday, and the aircraft brought with it 154 passengers. The new Chongqing–Kota Kinabalu route will be offered three times weekly on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday; thereby providing a direct flight from the southwestern Chinese city of Chongqing to the capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu.
A water cannon salute greeted the aircraft upon its arrival at Kota Kinabalu International Airport, which was coordinated by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, followed by a traditional cultural reception by the Sabah Tourism Board, which provided traditional attire and souvenirs for the passengers.
Present at the inaugural flight reception were Sabah Tourism Board’s Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit; Tourism Malaysia Sabah’s Director Haryanty Abu Bakar; and Guo Hao, General Manager of China Southern Airlines, Kuala Lumpur Office.
Chongqing Airlines (a subsidiary of China Southern Airlines) stated that this new route will improve air connectivity between Chongqing and Kota Kinabalu and lead to additional opportunities for tourism, business, and cultural exchanges between the two locations.
“With this direct link, travel time between Chongqing and Kota Kinabalu is significantly reduced, offering greater convenience for travellers,” Guo said, adding that Kota Kinabalu’s island attractions and tropical landscape continue to appeal to Chinese visitors.
With the latest addition, Kota Kinabalu is now connected to several major Chinese cities, including Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou and Fuzhou.
The new service reflects Sabah’s growing appeal as an international destination and supports efforts to strengthen connectivity in preparation for Visit Malaysia 2026.
The Sabah Tourism Board said it would continue working with airline partners and industry stakeholders to expand international routes and improve accessibility into the state.
