GEORGE TOWN, December 11 – AirAsia Malaysia has expanded its Asean network with the launch of a new Penang–Phuket route, creating a direct leisure and medical-travel corridor between two of the region’s most in-demand destinations.
With Penang’s medical-tourism sector surpassing 200,000 foreign patients and RM500 million in revenue as of August 2025, and Malaysia remaining Thailand’s top source of tourist arrivals, the airline aims to meet growing two-way demand while adding four new weekly flights between Malaysia and Thailand.
AirAsia CEO Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra said the route strengthens Penang’s connectivity ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026, noting that nearly 200,000 travellers have flown between Penang and Bangkok this year alone and that the new service will support tourism, healthcare and economic activity on both sides.
Penang EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai welcomed the launch as timely for both Visit Malaysia 2026 and Malaysia Year for Medical Tourism 2026, emphasising its positive impact on tourism, business and healthcare linkages with Thailand.
As one of AirAsia’s five major hubs, Penang now connects directly to 12 domestic and international cities, with the new Phuket service offering travellers across Asean more seamless, affordable options.
To celebrate the route introduction, AirAsia is offering promotional fares from Penang to Phuket starting from RM179 all-in one-way and from THB1,690 for Phuket–Penang flights, bookable until 21 December 2025 for travel from 13 March to 24 October 2026.
