A DIRECT flight being launched between the Indian city of Chennai and Penang in Malaysia will lead to a “strong increase” in business event activity between the two destinations, say officials.
The route operated by IndiGo is due to start on December 21, and will expand Penang’s network of international flights to 19.
Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) officials also hope the new route will promote further interest among groups travel organisers when the annual Penang Roadshow 2025 is held in India.
The new route is also been seen as bolstering PCEB’s efforts to enhance connectivity and foster closer ties between the two regions.
“This connection between Chennai and Penang bridges two vibrant cultures and opens up avenues for economic and creative growth,” said YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy.
“With this flight, Penang is closer than ever to our Indian friends, and I am confident it will lead to a strong increase in tourism and business events that will benefit both regions,” Wong said.
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Penang currently has direct flights to Bangkok, Hong Kong, Medan, Singapore, Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Aceh, Phuket, Guangzhou, Taipei, Ho Chi Minh City, Xiamen, Dubai, Doha, Shanghai, Shenzhen, as well as charter connections to Chongqing and Kunming. Officials said the routes positioned Penang as a key travel hub in Southeast Asia.
Ashwin Gunasekeran, PCEB chief executive, said: “The introduction of the direct Chennai-Penang flight represents the culmination of years of strategic engagement. Our focus has always been to create lasting connections with Indian businesses and travellers.
“This new route will simplify travel and open doors for further collaboration, reinforcing the growing bond between Penang and India.”
