HK Express Airways unveils new direct flights to Penang

HK Express Airways has officially launched ticket sales for its new direct flights between Hong Kong and Penang, set to begin on November 21.

The addition of this daily route not only enhances Penang’s accessibility but also strengthens its ties with Hong Kong, creating new opportunities for tourism and economic collaboration.

HK Express Airways enhancing connectivity

The new daily flight, HK Express Airways flight UO748, will depart from Hong Kong International Airport at 8.10 pm, arriving at Penang International Airport at 12.10 am local time.

The return flight, UO749, will leave Penang at 12.45 am and land in Hong Kong at 4.40 am.

This service will operate every day, providing consistent and reliable travel options between the two cities.

Wong Hon Wai, Tourism and Creative Economy executive councillor, highlighted the significance of this new route.

“This daily direct flight will further enhance Penang’s accessibility and connectivity with Hong Kong, providing more opportunities for tourism and economic collaboration between the two cities.”

The addition of HK Express Airways’ route increases Penang’s international flight network to 32 routes, offering greater connectivity for travellers.

Wong also mentioned the existing direct flight options between Hong Kong and Penang, which include Cathay Pacific’s daily service and AirAsia’s three weekly flights.

Boosting Penang’s tourism and economy

Penang is currently connected to 31 international cities through direct flights operated by various airlines.

These routes link Penang to major hubs like Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok, among others.

Wong expressed confidence that the new HK Express Airways route will attract more visitors from Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, further solidifying Penang’s reputation as a top travel destination.

Wong also emphasized the strategic importance of tapping into the tourism potential of China’s Greater Bay Area, which includes Hong Kong, Guangdong, and Macao.

“The Greater Bay Area has a population of 86 million people, with Hong Kong alone home to 7.5 million. Penang should explore and expand its market share in this economically strong region,” he stated.

With Penang’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences that appeal to tourists.

The increased flight frequency by HK Express Airways is expected to make it even more convenient for Hong Kong tourists to experience the diverse attractions Penang has to offer.

With a 25.78% increase in international tourist arrivals by air in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year, and a 244.21% surge in Chinese tourists, Penang’s tourism sector is on a positive trajectory.

As Wong concluded, “With the new direct flight route launched by HK Express Airways, we look forward to welcoming even more international tourists, further boosting Penang’s tourism and economic development.”