Direct flights are always the better option when planning a holiday, especially if you are travelling with your family or in a group.
The Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) has recently announced that it will not just be adding new direct route services for both Malaysia Airlines and Firefly, it will also increase flight frequencies on several existing services.
Starting Dec 2, Malaysia Airlines will bring back its Kuala Lumpur to Busan (South Korea) service, with four flights a week.
The airline last served the route between 1996 and 1998, and its return will reconnect KL with South Korea’s second-largest city. The service will be operated using the Boeing 737-8 and will complement Malaysia Airlines’ current service to Seoul, South Korea’s capital city.
The airline is also increasing its KL to Fukuoka (Japan) service from five times weekly to daily, beginning Dec 1. The route to the Japanese city resumed earlier this month on Sept 2.
Meanwhile, sister airline Firefly will expand its service into China with direct flights from KL to Kunming, which takes about four hours. This will be the airline’s first service to China and will be operated using the airline’s Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
The aircraft is worth mentioning as Firefly is also known for its fleet of smaller (12) “twin-engine turboprop” aircrafts (like the ATR 72), which is common for short-haul services, but the Kunming route will be operated by a bigger plane.
Malaysia Airlines is also increasing flights to Brisbane in Australia from six to seven times weekly starting Oct 25, with the airline using its new-generation Airbus A330neo aircraft (commonly used today for long haul journeys).
Additionally, flights to Surabaya, the largest city in East Java, Indonesia will also increase from 14 to 16 times weekly starting Nov 1. This gives travellers more options for visiting the province and its blend of cultural and natural attractions.
“We are continuing to grow with purpose, strengthening our network where there is demand, reconnecting established markets and expanding into new ones, while investing in the capabilities that support our airlines and customers,” said MAG president and group CEO Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar in a press conference.
Flights to Busan are appealing for Malaysians looking to explore South Korea beyond its capital city. The coastal city is known for its beaches, seafood and lively markets, making it a popular destination for travellers looking for a mix of city life and seaside experiences.
From the famous Haeundae Beach to the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village, there are plenty of places to explore, and things to experience, including food.
Its popularity among holidaymakers also partly stems from the city's reputation as a filming location. K-dramas such as Fight For My Way (2017) and My Name (2021) were primarily filmed in several parts of Busan.
As for Kunming, this new direct service will make the journey more convenient for Malaysians; currently one would need to take a domestic connecting flight to get there.
Known as China’s “Spring City”, Kunming is a gateway to Yunnan and is well-loved for its mild climate, mountain scenery and diverse food and culture. Details on the date and ticket sales will be announced later this year.
Fukuoka, a lively city in southern Japan, is renowned for its food scene, shopping and as an entry point to the Kyushu region. The airline remains the only carrier offering direct flights between KL and Fukuoka.
Beyond the city, travellers can use Fukuoka as a base to explore other parts of the lesser-known Kyushu region.
