The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) is excited to announce the launch of IndiGo’s new direct flight connecting Chennai to Penang, with the inaugural flight set to take off on December 21, 2024. This new route represents a significant milestone in fostering stronger ties between Penang and India, further enhancing PCEB's efforts to improve connectivity and deepen relations between the two regions.

Since 2017, PCEB has been actively working to raise Penang's profile in India, starting with the launch of the Penang Roadshow. This annual event has effectively highlighted Penang's rich culture, business potential, and tourism offerings to major cities across India. The upcoming 2025 edition will mark the eighth iteration of this initiative, reflecting PCEB’s continued commitment to the Indian market and its dedication to promoting Penang as an attractive destination for both leisure and business travelers.

With the addition of the Chennai-Penang route, Penang now boasts 18 direct international flights, connecting it to key cities such as Bangkok, Hong Kong, Medan, Singapore, Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Aceh, Phuket, Guangzhou, Taipei, Ho Chi Minh City, Xiamen, Dubai, Shanghai, Shenzhen, as well as charter flights to Chongqing and Kunming. These expanded air links position Penang as a growing travel hub in Southeast Asia, making it even more accessible for visitors and businesses.

Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO of PCEB, expressed enthusiasm about the new flight, saying, "The launch of the direct Chennai-Penang flight marks the culmination of years of focused efforts to build strong connections with Indian businesses and travelers. This new route will make travel more convenient and create new opportunities for collaboration, further strengthening the bond between Penang and India."

YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, highlighted the significance of the new route. "The direct link between Chennai and Penang bridges two dynamic cultures and opens up new possibilities for economic and creative growth. With this flight, Penang is now even closer to our Indian friends, and we are confident it will lead to an increase in both tourism and business events that will benefit both regions."

The introduction of the Chennai-Penang flight is expected to further boost Penang's tourism and economic connections with India, offering easier access for travelers to explore Penang's rich heritage, vibrant culture, and dynamic business environment.

PCEB anticipates that this enhanced connectivity will play a key role in advancing Penang's business events sector, solidifying the destination’s position as a leading hub for international events and business exchanges.