Three More Airlines To Boost Malaysia’s Global Connectivity, Expand Reach Into Asia And Africa
SEPANG, March 31 (Bernama) -- Three additional airlines are expected to enhance Malaysia’s global air connectivity and provide access to new growth markets in Asia and Africa.
The national flag carrier of Timor-Leste, AeroDili, and the national airline of Algeria, Air Algerie, commenced operations at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on March 28 and 30, respectively, while Chinese airline, Qingdao Airlines, began services at Penang International Airport (PEN) today.
Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said the additions are part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s aviation ecosystem.
“Our focus is on building a resilient, demand-driven network that supports tourism, trade and regional mobility, and we are actively pursuing new airline partnerships and routes to expand Malaysia’s global reach,” he said in a statement today.
According to MAHB, these additions support its long-term ambition of positioning Malaysia as the most connected country in Asia Pacific, while unlocking new growth markets.
AeroDili operates direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Timor-Leste twice-weekly following proactive engagement between MAHB, the airline, and relevant authorities after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s official visit to Timor-Leste last September.
The initiative included facilitating the airline’s Foreign Air Operator Certificate (FAOC) approval with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), translating bilateral ties into tangible aviation outcomes.
The airport operator said Air Algerie’s entry into KLIA marks a strategic milestone as it establishes the first direct air link between Malaysia and Algeria.
“Operating three times weekly, the route opens a new North African corridor with no direct competition and complements existing African connectivity via Ethiopian Airlines and Air Mauritius.
“Strong demand is evident, with its inaugural flight fully booked, signalling solid commercial potential and early traction in an underserved market,” said MAHB.
The route was secured through MAHB’s partnership with the airline via Routes, a global aviation forum where airports and airlines meet to develop new air services.
Qingdao Airlines, which operates three weekly flights, has become the ninth Chinese carrier operating at Penang International Airport, expanding access to secondary Chinese cities.
-- BERNAMA