India’s largest airline, low-cost carrier IndiGo has commenced operations on its new daily direct flight route between Chennai and Penang in Malaysia.

In a press statement, IndiGo says that its flight, 6E 1045 left from Chennai at 02:15 and arrived at Penang at 09:30 hours on Saturday. On the return leg, flight 6E 1046 left Penang at 09:30 this morning and reached Chennai at 10:35 hours. IndiGo says that Penang is its 37th international destination and third destination in Malaysia, besides Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi.

The airline adds that the new connection caters to the growing demand for travel between Chennai and Penang, offering both business and leisure travellers a convenient and affordable option, while also enhancing cultural ties and boosting economic activities.

Traditional water salute to welcome IndiGo flight 6E 1046 at Penang Airport

“We are extremely pleased to further expand our network into Malaysia with the launch of direct flights from Chennai to Penang, our third destination in Malaysia, alongside Kuala Lumpur & Langkawi. With the inclusion of these flights to Penang, IndiGo will now operate 28 weekly flights to Malaysia from two cities in India. The country’s recent visa waiver for Indian citizens is bound to create an even greater demand and easy access for business as well as leisure travellers. We are confident this new route will offer our customers an affordable, timely, courteous, and hassle-free travel experience across our expansive network,” says Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo.

The statement adds that with direct flights now connecting Chennai and Penang, IndiGo offers travellers a faster, more convenient option, reducing travel time significantly. Chennai also serves as a gateway for travellers from Bengaluru, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai heading to Penang.

Penang Convention and Exhibition Board welcomes launch

To mark the arrival of the inaugural flight in Penang, the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) organised a welcome ceremony and a press conference. According to PCEB, India is one of Penang’s key source markets, with Chennai being a significant hub. The board says in a press statement that the introduction of this direct flight by IndiGo Airlines ensures greater convenience for travelers, strengthening Penang’s position as a preferred destination in the region. The added accessibility will showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage, modern attractions, and business-friendly environment to a wider audience.

Penang Convention & Exhibition bureau organised a reception to mark the inaugural flight

The statement adds that Chennai’s strategic location will also serve as a vital connecting hub for passengers from other major Indian cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai traveling to Penang. This expanded access simplifies travel logistics for Indian travelers and enhances Penang’s appeal as a prime destination for leisure and business, tapping into a broader segment of India’s growing outbound tourism market.

Ashwin Gunasekeran

“This direct flight from Chennai to Penang is a pivotal development that strengthens the bonds between our two cities. It creates fresh opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange, paving the way for a future of mutual growth and collaboration,” says YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy.

“This new route opens up exciting prospects for business travel and events, enhancing Penang’s offerings as a premier destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. The connectivity will undoubtedly attract more Indian delegates and stakeholders, contributing to the growth of our business events industry,” says Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO, PCEB, highlighting the potential for the business events industry in Penang.