IndiGo’s new Chennai-Penang flight, launching December 2024, enhances tourism and business connectivity, fostering stronger ties between Penang and India.
PENANG, MALAYSIA – Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) announced the launch of IndiGo’s direct flight from Chennai to Penang, with the inaugural flight scheduled for the 21st of December 2024. This marks a significant step in strengthening the relationship between Penang and India. The new route further cements PCEB’s ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity and foster closer ties between the two regions.
Since 2017, PCEB has been dedicated to elevating Penang’s profile in India, beginning with the launch of the Penang Roadshow. This annual event has successfully showcased Penang’s unique blend of culture, business opportunities, and tourism offerings to major cities across India. The upcoming 2025 roadshow will be the eighth edition of this initiative, underscoring PCEB’s long-term commitment to the Indian market and its continuous efforts to promote Penang as an attractive destination for both leisure and business.
With the addition of the Chennai-Penang route by IndiGo, Penang’s network of direct international flights now totals 19. This expanded connectivity includes direct flights from major cities such as Bangkok, Hong Kong, Medan, Singapore, Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Aceh, Phuket, Guangzhou, Taipei, Ho Chi Minh City, Xiamen, Dubai, Doha, Shanghai, Shenzhen, as well as charter connections to Chongqing and Kunming. These routes position Penang as a key travel hub in Southeast Asia, further enhancing its accessibility for travelers and businesses alike.
Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO of Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB), expressed his enthusiasm about the new flight: “The introduction of the direct IndiGo Chennai-Penang flight represents the culmination of years of strategic engagement. Our focus has always been to create lasting connections with Indian businesses and travelers. This new route will simplify travel and open doors for further collaboration, reinforcing the growing bond between Penang and India.”
YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, emphasized the significance of the new route. “This connection between Chennai and Penang bridges two vibrant cultures and opens up avenues for economic and creative growth,” he said. “With this flight, Penang is closer than ever to our Indian friends, and I am confident it will lead to a strong increase in tourism and business events that will benefit both regions.”
IndiGo’s flight from Chennai is poised to strengthen Penang’s tourism and economic ties with India, offering greater convenience for travelers seeking to experience Penang’s rich heritage, dynamic culture, and thriving business environment. PCEB anticipates that this enhanced connectivity will further fuel the growth of Penang’s business events sector, solidifying the destination’s position as a premier hub for international conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.