Sarawak welcomes 9Air’s first Haikou–Kuching charter flight, eyes more direct China routes
Key Points
- 19Air launched its first Haikou-Kuching charter flight, enhancing air connectivity between Sarawak and China.
- 2The bi-weekly service marks Kuching as 9Air's second Malaysian destination.
- 3Sarawak is encouraging 9Air to consider direct flights from Guangzhou and Shenzhen.
- 4Miri is being considered as a potential future destination for 9Air services.
- 59Air will launch the Haikou-Penang route, expanding its presence in Malaysia.
- 6Sarawak anticipates more charter flights from China, indicating growing market interest.
9Air inaugurated its direct scheduled charter flight from Haikou to Kuching, Sarawak, signaling a strengthening of air links between China and Malaysia. The bi-weekly service, which operates on a rotating schedule, positions Kuching as 9Air's second Malaysian destination after Kuala Lumpur. Sarawak's Minister for Transport welcomed the new route and encouraged 9Air to consider expanding its network to include direct flights from Guangzhou and Shenzhen, citing strong economic and tourism ties. Miri was also highlighted as a potential future destination due to its growth and proximity to Guangzhou and Shenzhen.
9Air currently operates a fleet of 27 aircraft under a low-cost model, achieving high load factors. The airline acknowledged the potential for direct Guangzhou–Kuching services and expressed openness to exploring direct Shenzhen–Miri or Guangzhou–Miri routes, contingent on market demand and Sarawak's development. The launch of the Haikou–Kuching service coincides with increasing travel demand between China and Malaysia, further bolstered by the mutual visa-exemption policy set to be introduced in July 2025.
In addition to the Kuching service, 9Air is scheduled to launch the Haikou–Penang route, further solidifying its commitment to regional connectivity. Sarawak anticipates welcoming additional charter flights from China, reflecting growing interest from the Chinese market. This momentum is expected to pave the way for more direct routes connecting Sarawak with other cities in China.
The establishment of the Haikou-Kuching route follows discussions between Sarawak officials and the Chairman of Shanghai Juneyao Group, 9Air's parent company, who suggested initiating charter flights to build market confidence before transitioning to full scheduled services. This strategic approach is now materializing with the launch of the Haikou–Kuching route, demonstrating a phased approach to expanding air connectivity between Sarawak and China.
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