Juneyao Air connect Shanghai and Penang this May

Juneyao Air announced the launch of direct flights between the two cities, commencing on May 31st, 2024.

This new route coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia.

The announcement comes after both countries implemented a visa-free agreement in December 2023, allowing visa-free travel for citizens (15 days for Malaysians in China, 30 days for Chinese in Malaysia) until the end of November 2024.

Juneyao Air flight details

According to the Huang Pu Shanghai government website, Juneyao Airlines will operate four weekly flights departing Shanghai Pu Dong International Airport (PVG) on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

The flights will utilise A320 aircraft with a capacity of 180 passengers and have a travel time of approximately five hours and 30 minutes.

Flight HO1365 will depart Shanghai (PVG) at 5:30 pm and arrive in Penang (PEN) at 11:00 pm. The return flight (HO1366) will depart Penang at 12:05 am and arrive in Shanghai at 5:25 am (arriving Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday).

Juneyao Airlines, owned by the Shanghai Juneyao Group, is a codeshare partner of the Star Alliance network.

The airline recently announced increased flight frequencies to Bangkok (Thailand) and Singapore, effective March 31st, 2024.

Flights from Shanghai Pu Dong to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi will double from one to two daily flights, while Singapore will see continued service with twice-daily flights.

Strengthening Penang’s tourism industry

In January this year, Penang State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai welcomed the addition of the new route, highlighting its potential to boost the state’s tourism industry.

He stated Penang’s goal of adding three new international destinations this year, targeting India, China, and the United Arab Emirates.

“This not only provides more choices for international travelers but also offers travel comfort for those in northern Malaysia,” explained Wong Hon Wai.

“These initiatives will strengthen Penang’s position as a premier Asian tourist destination and contribute positively to the state’s economy.”

Wong further elaborated on efforts to expand Penang’s international flight network.

He recently visited IndiGo headquarters in New Delhi to explore direct flight possibilities between India and Penang.

Additionally, Penang Global Tourism officials met with Flydubai Airlines to discuss establishing a direct route between Dubai and Penang.