AirAsia Launches New Routes from Malaysia to Mainland China

AirAsia is expanding its presence in mainland China with the introduction of two new routes from Malaysia. The low-cost airline will launch flights from Penang International Airport (PEN) to Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) on October 28, 2024, followed by flights from Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KBI) to Shantou Airport (SWA) on November 16, 2024. The Penang-Shenzhen route will operate four times weekly, while the Kota Kinabalu-Shantou route will have three weekly flights.

These new routes will connect Malaysia to China’s Guangdong province, known for its bustling economic trading ports, scenic coastal lines, and modern park attractions. The expansion comes at a time of increased travel between the two countries, bolstered by the Chinese government’s visa-free entry policy for Malaysian citizens, effective until December 31, 2025.

The visa-free policy has led to a significant surge in Malaysian tourists visiting China, with Malaysian media outlet The Star reporting that two million Malaysians have traveled to China since the policy’s implementation.

To celebrate the launch, AirAsia is offering promotional fares for these new routes. Passengers can book one-way flights from Penang to Shenzhen starting at RM329 ($75.00) and from Kota Kinabalu to Shantou starting at RM299 ($69.00). These fares are available through the AirAsia app and the airline’s website.

This expansion into China reflects AirAsia’s strategy to capitalize on growing travel demand between Southeast Asia and China. With the introduction of these new routes, the airline is poised to strengthen its position in the region’s competitive aviation market, offering more travel options for passengers seeking affordable and convenient flights between Malaysia and China.

Travelers can look forward to exploring the rich cultural and economic landscapes of Guangdong province, while benefiting from AirAsia’s commitment to providing budget-friendly travel. As the airline continues to grow its network, these new routes are expected to further enhance connectivity between Malaysia and China, supporting tourism and business ties between the two nations.

With the upcoming launch of these flights, AirAsia continues to solidify its role as a key player in the low-cost carrier segment, making international travel more accessible and affordable for a broader range of passengers.