GEORGE TOWN, Dec 31 – Chinese airline Loong Air launched its new direct flight connecting Xi’an, China to Penang at Penang International Airport on Monday (Dec 30).
The flight will operate twice weekly, on Mondays and Fridays, using an Airbus A320 with a capacity of 168 passengers.
Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said the new Xi’an-Penang route resulted from strong collaboration between the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry and the Transport Ministry (MOT).
“Xian is the largest city in the northwest of China, Xian, previously called Chang’an, is the eastern start point of the ancient Silk Road and has more than 3,100 years of history.
” I believe that the direct connectivity between Xi’an and Penang will open the market of the northwest part of China to Penang tourism, and at the same time, it will also provide opportunities to the travellers from northwest China to explore tropical hospitality of South East Asia.
He said after receiving the inaugural flight at the airport, together with Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk P Manoharan and China’s Penang Vice Consul General, Ding Qiao.
Representatives from Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd, Loong Air, Ground Team Red Sdn Bhd (GTR), and Penang state officials were also present.
He added that the country recorded 3.04 million tourist arrivals from China, an increase of 132.7% this year compared to 2023.
“Operating twice weekly, this flight will bring more tourists to experience Penang’s rich heritage, stunning scenery, and world-class hospitality.
“Additionally, the visa-free policy, extended until December 2026 and increased connectivity between Malaysia and China are expected to boost these numbers further,” he added.
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