Penang’s Tourism Sector Soars with New Spring Airlines Routes

Penang’s tourism sector is experiencing a significant boost with the arrival of Spring Airlines’ new direct flights from Shanghai and Guangzhou, reinforcing the state’s growing popularity among Chinese travellers and strengthening air connectivity in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. The increased accessibility is expected to drive substantial growth in tourist arrivals and economic benefits for the region.

Spring Airlines Expands Connectivity to Penang

Spring Airlines, China’s largest and first low-cost carrier, founded in 2004, commenced daily flights between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Penang International Airport on January 30, 2026, operating under flight numbers 9C7295/7250 . Flights arrive in Penang at 2:30 PM local time and depart back to Shanghai at 3:30 PM, utilizing Airbus A320 aircraft.

In February 2026, the airline also launched a direct Guangzhou–Penang route, operating three times weekly . Spring Airlines initiated a daily Shanghai–Kuala Lumpur service in December 2025.

Penang’s Growing Network of Chinese Connections

With the addition of the Shanghai service, Penang is now directly connected to six major Chinese cities – Chengdu, Xiamen, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Shanghai – through scheduled direct flights operated by 10 airlines . This provides extensive coverage across East, South, and Southwest China.

The introduction of these routes has increased Penang’s international direct flight frequency to 335 flights per week, up from 325 in December 2025. Further expansion is planned with Qingdao Airlines set to launch a Qingdao–Penang service on March 31, followed by a Chongqing–Penang route by Chongqing Airlines on April 8.

China as a Key Tourism Market for Malaysia and Penang

China is currently Malaysia and Penang’s second-largest international source market. A visa exemption scheme for Chinese visitors, allowing stays of up to 90 days (increased from 30 days previously), has been effective in promoting economic growth through tourism .

In 2025, Malaysia welcomed 42 million international visitor arrivals, a 11.2% increase year-on-year. Of these, 4.7 million were from China . Since January 2025, China has grow Penang’s second-largest international source market, surpassing Singapore, and accounting for over 40% of the overall increase in Penang’s tourist arrivals.

Looking Ahead to Visit Malaysia Year 2026

Malaysia aims to welcome 47 million visitors in 2026 in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026. The tourism ministry will continue to implement measures to attract more tourists, encourage longer stays, and boost spending, prioritizing improved accessibility through increased flight frequencies and enhanced tourism and cultural programs, including business events.