China Southern To Add Third Daily Guangzhou-Penang Flight

GEORGE TOWN, Dec 4 (Bernama) -- China Southern Airlines will increase its Guangzhou–Penang direct flights from two to three daily services from December 28, strengthening air connectivity ahead of Malaysia Tourism Year 2026.

Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the expansion makes China Southern the first Chinese airline to operate three daily direct flights to Penang, marking a significant milestone in connectivity with southern China.

“As we prepare to welcome Malaysia Tourism Year 2026 and Malaysia Medical Tourism Year 2026, this expansion is timely.

“With direct access to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, one of China’s top three aviation hubs, Penang stands to gain greater visibility and competitive strength in the South China market,” he said in a statement today.

Tickets for the new flights are now available on China Southern Airlines’ official website.

The newly added flight, CZ5047, will operate daily, departing Guangzhou at 1.55 pm and arriving in Penang at 6 pm. This complements existing services departing at 5.05 pm (arriving 9 pm) and 6.45 pm (arriving 10.45 pm).

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The outbound Penang–Guangzhou flight, CZ5048, will depart Penang daily at 7 pm, arriving in Guangzhou at 10.50 pm, alongside existing 9.05 am and 11.55 pm departures.

“With this addition, travellers will enjoy a more flexible range of flight timings, making it easier than ever to plan seamless and personalised journeys,” Wong said.

He added that the increased frequency reflects strong demand and demonstrates the rising popularity of Penang among travellers from Guangzhou and southern China, with the state’s heritage, culture, cuisine, natural attractions, and world-class medical services continuing to draw Chinese visitors.

“Guangzhou’s status as a major aviation hub with connections across every continent provides easy transit for travellers from cities without direct access to Penang.

“Increasing the Guangzhou–Penang frequency from two to three daily flights not only strengthens accessibility but also enhances Penang’s position as a gateway for leisure travellers, medical visitors, business delegates, and cultural exchange programmes,” he said.

Direct flights from major Chinese cities to Penang will now total 79 weekly services, including 21 each from Guangzhou and Hong Kong, 14 from Shanghai, seven each from Shenzhen, Xiamen, and Chengdu, and two from Xi’an.

Wong said the expanded network gives Chinese travellers unprecedented choice, reinforcing Penang’s appeal in China’s largest urban markets.

Looking ahead, Wong highlighted the travel potential in 2026, with three major Golden Weeks—Chinese New Year, Labour Day, and National Day—alongside four long weekends.

“The upcoming nine-day Chinese New Year holiday, the longest in history, offers tremendous opportunities for outbound travel. China Southern’s expansion to three daily flights perfectly aligns with these peak periods, providing Chinese travellers with greater convenience, flexibility, and opportunities to explore Penang’s rich experiences,” he said.

Wong added that the Penang State Government will continue working closely with major airlines to expand international air connectivity.

“This effort will not only enhance Penang’s accessibility and strengthen the competitiveness of the tourism sector, but also offer travellers greater convenience and choice while sustaining momentum in the state’s commercial and cultural activities,” he said.

-- BERNAMA