Malaysia Airlines Celebrates Resumption of Direct Flights to Chengdu, Strengthening Connectivity to Western China

Malaysia Airlines is pleased to announce the resumption of flights from Kuala Lumpur to Chengdu, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the Greater China market and strengthening connectivity between Malaysia and Western China, and supporting Malaysia’s inbound tourism ambitions under Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

Resumption Date:
The Kuala Lumpur–Chengdu direct service officially resumed on 9 January 2026.

Inaugural Flight:
Flight MH526 departed from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) with a 91% load factor, showing strong demand.

Special Touch:
The inaugural flight featured a Manchester United-themed aircraft livery, celebrating the club’s popularity among Chengdu fans.

Ceremonial Send-Off:
Passengers received exclusive Malaysia Airlines merchandise, with senior executives from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) present at the event.

Strategic Importance
- Greater China Market: Chengdu becomes Malaysia Airlines’ 7th destination in Greater China, reinforcing confidence in the region.
- Frequency: Up to seven weekly flights, supporting both leisure and business travel.
- Connectivity: Offers seamless onward connections via Kuala Lumpur to ASEAN, South Asia, and Australasia.
- Visa-Free Travel: Relaunch coincides with the mutual visa-free travel extension between Malaysia and China, encouraging longer stays and stronger travel flows.

Broader Malaysia–China Relations
- The announcement follows MASkargo’s special panda transport from Chengdu to Kuala Lumpur, part of a renewed bilateral conservation agreement.

This route not only strengthens Malaysia Airlines’ footprint in China but also ties into Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) tourism ambitions.