The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) has welcomed the launch of a direct flight from Chennai to Penang, announced by India’s largest airline, low-cost carrier IndiGo, that is slated to commence on December 21.

In a press statement, PCEB says that the direct flight marks a significant step in strengthening the relationship between Penang and India. The new route further cements PCEB’s ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity and foster closer ties between the two regions. 

The statement adds that since 2017, PCEB has been dedicated to elevating Penang’s profile in India, beginning with the launch of the Penang Roadshow. This annual event has successfully showcased Penang’s unique blend of culture, business opportunities, and tourism offerings to major cities across India. 

The upcoming 2025 roadshow will be the eighth edition of this initiative, underscoring PCEB’s long-term commitment to the Indian market and its continuous efforts to promote Penang as an attractive destination for both leisure and business. 

According to PCEB, the new direct flight from Chennai is poised to strengthen Penang’s tourism and economic ties with India

With the addition of the Chennai-Penang route, Penang’s network of direct international flights now totals 19, says PCEB. This expanded connectivity includes direct flights from major cities such as Bangkok, Hong Kong, Medan, Singapore, Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Aceh, Phuket, Guangzhou, Taipei, Ho Chi Minh City, Xiamen, Dubai, Doha, Shanghai, Shenzhen, as well as charter connections to Chongqing and Kunming. These routes position Penang as a key travel hub in Southeast Asia, further enhancing its accessibility for travelers and businesses alike.

Ashwin Gunasekeran

“The introduction of the direct Chennai-Penang flight represents the culmination of years of strategic engagement. Our focus has always been to create lasting connections with Indian businesses and travelers. This new route will simplify travel and open doors for further collaboration, reinforcing the growing bond between Penang and India,” says Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO, PCEB.

YB Wong Hon Wai

“This connection between Chennai and Penang bridges two vibrant cultures and opens up avenues for economic and creative growth. With this flight, Penang is closer than ever to our Indian friends, and I am confident it will lead to a strong increase in tourism and business events that will benefit both regions,” says YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy.

According to PCEB, the new direct flight from Chennai is poised to strengthen Penang’s tourism and economic ties with India, offering greater convenience for travellers seeking to experience Penang’s rich heritage, dynamic culture, and thriving business environment. PCEB says that it anticipates that this enhanced connectivity will further fuel the growth of Penang’s business events sector, solidifying the destination’s position as a premier hub for international conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events.