Haikou: The Haikou-Penang direct flight service is set to commence on October 11, marking Haikou as the ninth Chinese city to establish a direct air connection with Penang. This development was announced by State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, who emphasized the potential for enhanced air connectivity between Hainan and Penang, offering opportunities for Penang to attract more tourists from China.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Wong's announcement followed discussions with Hainan Airlines representatives in Guangzhou. The meeting was part of Wong's tourism roadshow aimed at showcasing Penang's attractions. He noted that plans for the new route had been finalized, highlighting Haikou's inclusion as a significant milestone in expanding Penang's air links with major Chinese cities.
The inaugural flight, HU477, will depart from Haikou Meilan International Airport at 5.30 pm on October 11, arriving at Penang International Airport at 8.45 pm. The return flight, HU478, will leave Penang at 9.45 pm and reach Haikou at 1 am the next day. The service will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Sundays.
Wong stressed that the new route would enhance Penang's status as an international tourism destination and provide favorable conditions to tap into China's vast tourism market. Haikou, with its significant population, represents a market with considerable potential. As of the end of 2025, Haikou's permanent resident population was recorded at over 3 million, with Hainan Province home to approximately 10.55 million permanent residents.
Beyond tourism, the air link aims to strengthen the historical ties between Penang and Hainan. Since 2013, the two regions have maintained friendly relations, further solidified by a 2017 memorandum between Penang Island and Sanya City. The improved travel ease is expected to foster deeper cooperation in areas such as business, creative industries, culture, and tourism.
Wong also pointed to the potential for economic and industrial collaborations. With Hainan's Free Trade Port as a significant platform in China and Penang's role as a regional logistics hub and electronics manufacturing center, the direct flight is set to facilitate business travel, industrial exchanges, and logistics connectivity.