SEPANG: The entry of Jiangxi Airlines Co Ltd (Jiangxi Air) into Malaysia through its new direct Nanchang-Kuala Lumpur route is a strategic step forward in strengthening air links between Malaysia and China, said Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd
(MAHB) managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani.
Jiangxi Air officially launched its first Southeast Asian international route, the Nanchang-Kuala Lumpur route, today.
Mohd Izani said the twice-weekly service not only expands Kuala Lumpur International Airport’s (KLIA) network connectivity, but also opens access to one of China’s fastest-growing cities while supporting Malaysia’s position as a key aviation hub in Southeast Asia.
"Direct services to emerging Chinese markets are especially valuable. They drive passenger growth, unlock opportunities for investment and commerce, and deepen the long-standing economic ties that Malaysia and China share.
"With Jiangxi Air, we are taking another step towards broadening that reach and making travel between our two nations more seamless,” he said in his speech during the airline’s inaugural flight at KLIA Terminal 1 here today.
Jiangxi Air held inaugural flight ceremonies at both Nanchang Changbei International Airport and KL International Airport on the same day.
The route operates every Monday and Saturday. The outbound flight, numbered RY6607, departs Nanchang at 10 am and arrives in Kuala Lumpur at 3 pm, while the return flight, RY6608, departs Kuala Lumpur at 4 pm and arrives in Nanchang at 8.50 pm.
The inaugural flight from Nanchang arrived this afternoon and was greeted with a water cannon salute before passengers were welcomed at the boarding gate with Malaysia-themed gifts.
Representatives from the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Ministry of Transport and MAHB attended the event.
Meanwhile, Mohd Izani said that as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, air connectivity will play a central role in attracting more tourists and ensuring that every passenger’s first and last impression of Malaysia reflects the nation’s warmth, hospitality and identity.
Also present at today’s event, Jiangxi Airlines general manager Kang Zhiyang said the launch is part of its strategy to support the Belt and Road Initiative and to promote Jiangxi’s rich tourism offerings.
He said the carrier aimed to continuously enhance service quality, introduce customised travel products, and strengthen connectivity to foster greater exchanges and cooperation between China and Malaysia.
Separately, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia deputy-secretary general (Tourism) Chua Choon Hwa said from January to June 2025, Malaysia has welcomed 2.17 million visitors from China, reflecting an impressive 35.6 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
"This surge clearly demonstrates the growing demand for Malaysia among Chinese travellers and highlights the timeliness of Jiangxi Air’s entry into Malaysia,” he added.
Founded in 2015, Jiangxi Air currently operates a fleet of 18 aircraft serving more than 80 cities in China. - Bernama
