PENANG has officially welcomed the inaugural direct flight from Senai, Johor, operated by Batik Air, marking another milestone in strengthening air connectivity between the northern and southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia while enhancing travel convenience for passengers.
The flight, carrying 104 passengers, landed at the Penang International Airport (PIA) yesterday (March 18), signalling the commencement of the new Senai–Penang route.
The service, which began operations on March 18, will initially operate with a frequency of one daily flight, further boosting domestic air connectivity across the country.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai described the launch as timely, particularly with Hari Raya Aidilfitri approaching, as it offers a more seamless travel option for Malaysians returning home for the festive season.
“The introduction of this route on the eve of Hari Raya Aidilfitri is both timely and well-placed.
“As the festive season approaches, many Malaysians working or studying away from home will be making their journey back to celebrate with their loved ones.
“This direct service provides an additional and convenient option for those travelling between Penang and Senai, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable journey home,” he said.
Wong noted that the Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan typically experiences heavy congestion during the festive period due to the surge in ‘balik kampung’ traffic.
“As such, this new direct air link presents an attractive alternative for travellers seeking to avoid long hours on the road.
“Whether travelling northbound from Senai to Penang or southbound from Penang to Senai, passengers can now enjoy a faster, more efficient and comfortable journey between the two regions,” he added.
Highlighting broader aviation efforts, Wong said the Penang government has, in recent years, intensified initiatives to expand its international air connectivity by increasing direct flight routes linking the state to major global destinations.
“These efforts are aimed at attracting more international visitors, maximising Penang’s tourism potential, and stimulating growth across related industries,” he explained.
However, he emphasised that domestic connectivity remains equally important and has not been overlooked.
“Domestic air travel plays a crucial role not only in attracting local tourists to Penang but also as a key component of the national transportation network.
“Beyond tourism, it serves a wider purpose in providing Malaysians with reliable and efficient mobility, strengthening inter-state connectivity.
“It is not just about tourism development, but also about facilitating daily travel and movement, making it a vital pillar of both transportation and public service,” he said.
Wong also highlighted the steady growth of Penang’s domestic aviation sector in recent years.
“In 2025, PIA recorded 3,997,133 domestic passenger movements, up from 3,596,179 in 2024, an increase of 400,954 passengers, or 11.15%,” he noted.
He added that Penang’s domestic network currently connects to seven key destinations nationwide namely Senai, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Kota Bharu, Subang, and Langkawi, offering greater accessibility and flexibility for travellers.
“In terms of flight frequency, Penang has also recorded significant improvements.
“In 2025, domestic flight frequency reached 312 weekly flights, compared to 261 weekly flights in 2024, marking an increase of 51 flights or 19.5%.
“This clearly demonstrates that while Penang continues to expand its international reach, its domestic connectivity is also being progressively strengthened,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting and courtesy of YB Wong’s office