AirAsia launches direct flights between Penang and Shenzhen, strengthening ties between two dynamic cities

Photo caption: YB Wong Hon Wai, Chairman of the Penang State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee (Middle) and Kenneth Tan, AirAsia Director of Northern Region Affairs (Fifth from left) along with key tourism stakeholders and AirAsia Allstars at the receiving ceremony of Shenzhen-Penang inaugural flight.

PENANG, 29 October 2024 – Penang Global Tourism (PGT) is excited to announce, in collaboration with AirAsia, the launch of the highly anticipated direct flight route between Penang and Shenzhen. This new service, starting from 28 October 2024, marks a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity between Malaysia and China, fostering greater cultural, economic, and tourism exchanges.

To commemorate the inaugural flight, a welcoming ceremony was held on 29 October 2024 at 9:00AM at Penang International Airport. The event was attended by YB Wong Hong Wai, Chairman of the Penang State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee, along with AirAsia Allstars, key tourism stakeholders, and members of the media.

The new Penang-Shenzhen route will operate four times weekly, providing travellers from both cities with enhanced convenience and accessibility. Penang, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, world-class cuisine, and historical landmarks, is expected to benefit from an influx of tourists from Shenzhen, one of China’s leading economic hubs.

YB Wong Hong Wai expressed his enthusiasm for the new connection:
"This direct route between Penang and Shenzhen presents incredible opportunities for both cities, not just in tourism but also in deepening cultural and business exchanges. Penang has long been a melting pot of cultures, and this new connection will further cement its position as a top international destination. We are eager to welcome more visitors from China and strengthen our ties with Shenzhen."

Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, Managing Director of AirAsia Malaysia also commemorated the inaugural with his comments: 

"We are pleased to witness the launch of another new route to China, this time from our third largest hub, Penang, in Malaysia. It is exciting to welcome our guests aboard the inaugural flight from this vibrant city to Penang, which boasts a rich cultural heritage and mouth-watering local delicacies. As the largest foreign low-cost carrier in China, we strongly believe we can attract more Chinese tourists to the city, especially with the government's visa-free initiative for up to 15 days, valid until the end of next year. We look forward to launching more routes from this hub to support the state's tourism goals, enhance the travel experience, and provide more affordable travel options across the region for our guests."

As Penang continues to strengthen its role as a key destination for cultural exchange and tourism, this direct flight will play a vital role in bolstering economic ties, promoting religious tourism, and positioning Penang as a gateway to Southeast Asia.

Promotional fares for the Penang-Shenzhen route will start from RM289 all-in* one way. Guests can book their flights via the AirAsia MOVE app or airasia.com from today until 3 November 2024 for immediate travel up until 30 June 2025.

 Visit airasia.com or download the AirAsia MOVE app for latest flight information . Follow @flyairasia on Instagram for latest promotions and updates.

*All-in fares are quoted for one way travel only, inclusive of airport taxes, MAVCOM fee, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. T&C apply.