PENANG: The new direct route from Penang to Chongqing that brings the total number of direct flight connections between Penang and 8 Chinese cities into service is part of Penang’s policy to establish itself as a major player in the Chinese market. The launch of Chongqing Airlines on 9th April was a major milestone in the development of Penang’s Aviation Network.
According to Mr Wong Honour who is the Penang State Executive Councillor responsible for Tourism and the Creative Economy, this will help Penang to become more competitive and connect better with Western China. More importantly, this will stimulate tourism and foster stronger economic ties between Penang and Chongqing.
The Chongqing-Penang service is scheduled four times a week, with Flight OQ2195 leaving Chongqing at 7:50 p.m. local time and arriving in Penang just after midnight, and, conversely, Flight OQ2196 leaving Penang at 1:30 a.m. and arriving in Chongqing at 6:10 a.m. respectively.
Wong said the route’s launch builds on earlier efforts to promote Penang in the Sichuan-Chongqing region, including a tourism roadshow he led in 2024 that helped raise the state’s profile among Chinese travellers.
He added that what began as chartered services has now been upgraded to scheduled flights, supported by ongoing promotional campaigns and a memorandum of understanding signed between Penang Global Tourism and Chongqing Airlines.
“These strategic initiatives have strengthened Penang’s visibility and market penetration in western China, positioning the state as an attractive destination for travellers from the region,” he said.
Amid global uncertainties, particularly in the Middle East, Wong noted that tourism flows within East and Southeast Asia are becoming increasingly important.
“To ensure sustainable growth, Penang must continue diversifying its source markets, with East Asia remaining a key priority,” he added.
With the addition of Chongqing, Penang now has direct links to eight Chinese cities, including Guangzhou, Xiamen, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Chengdu and Qingdao, further enhancing its connectivity with one of its key tourism markets.
Wong said the new route is expected to attract more visitors from inland China, while strengthening cultural and economic ties between both destinations.
He highlighted the complementary nature of the two cities, describing Chongqing as a mountainous metropolis known for its dramatic urban landscape, while Penang offers coastal charm, heritage attractions and natural landscapes.
“Travellers can now experience the contrast between a ‘mountain city’ and a ‘coastal city’, creating a unique and enriching travel experience,” he said.
Wong also pointed to the upcoming durian season as an added draw, noting that this year’s harvest is expected earlier than usual due to prolonged hot weather in northern Peninsular Malaysia.
“With direct connectivity now in place, visitors from western China can conveniently arrive in time to enjoy Penang’s durian season, offering a distinctive culinary experience,” he said.
Among those present to welcome the inaugural flight were representatives from China Southern Airlines, Ooi Chok Yan, Tourism Malaysia and airport authorities, as well as Dr Annuar bin Mohammed from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Penang.
