WITH 82 weekly flights from China, Penang remains upbeat over its expanding direct air links with the region despite global concerns over rising fuel costs amid the Middle East crisis.
Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the crisis had yet to affect the China-Penang sector, with passenger numbers still steady.
“Of course, the global situation will have an impact. But for China, there is already a framework for fuel surcharge adjustments, so any increase will not be drastic.
“We are looking at this not only from an economic aspect, but also from a broader perspective of cultural and social exchange.
“We believe that with the existing system, and if any increase remains within a reasonable margin, these flights can still continue,” he said after launching the Qingdao Airlines networking session in George Town.
Wong said Chinese aviation players, especially government- linked airlines like Qingdao Airlines, had already taken proactive measures in response to the global oil price situation.
“So far, it has not had much impact on the aviation industry in China.
“There have also been no disruptions so far involving airlines from China flying into Penang.”
Wong said Penang would welcome more flights during this period if airlines were keen to expand their services.
He said Chongqing Airlines was set to launch a new direct service to Penang on April 8, making Chongqing the eighth city in China with direct flights to the state.
He added that Penang would also be sending delegates to Xi’an in central China for an upcoming conference involving airport and tourism authorities, to discuss the potential for more direct routes to the island.
At present, Penang has 82 weekly flights from China, with Guangzhou and Hong Kong accounting for the highest frequency at 21 flights each, followed by Shanghai with 16.
Wong also said Penang was looking to tap into new business event opportunities amid some cancellations from the Middle East.
He said Qatar Airways was also in the process of resuming flights to Penang, as the route was important not only for passenger movement but also for cargo connectivity.
“There have been some cancellations involving meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) in Dubai, so we are now engaging with the organisers to see if these events can be hosted in Penang instead.
“Penang remains attractive being Muslim-friendly while possessing all the necessary infrastructure for such events.
“This involves opportunities for both this year and next year, and the Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau is actively pursuing them.
“Flydubai flights have been temporarily suspended, while Qatar Airways is currently undergoing a gradual recovery, particularly for cargo operations,” Wong added.
