Penang prepares for more overseas routes ahead of airport expansion
The state wants closer coordination with MAHB and has proposed federal matching grants to attract direct flights from selected international markets.
Penang is preparing for additional international flights as an airport expansion is set to lift annual passenger capacity to 12 million from 6.8 million. Wong Hon Wai, the state’s Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman, said on October 6 that the government would strengthen coordination with Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) on those plans.
Wong said the Penang International Airport (PIA) project would be finished within the next two years. Planning ahead would help put the increased capacity to use through new overseas connections and more frequent services to destinations already served.
He recently discussed airport upgrades and route development with senior MAHB officials in Kuala Lumpur. Regular discussions between the state and operator will cover potential routes, aviation trends and future airport projects. Wong also called for prompt sharing of market data and intelligence.
According to Wong, efforts to connect Penang directly with major cities abroad have increased tourist arrivals and delivered wider economic benefits. He also pointed to cargo opportunities, citing growing demand for international freight and logistics services among multinational corporations in Penang.
The state has asked the federal government to give tourism development greater support in Budget 2027. Wong said its proposals include an International Air Connectivity Fund providing matching grants to draw direct flights from markets such as Japan, South Korea, Australia and the Middle East.
