MAG Expands China Charter Routes with Firefly Flights

Malaysia Aviation Group Expands China Connectivity with New Charter Services to Chongqing and Macau Operated by Firefly in support of Visit Malaysia 2026

MAG adds Firefly charter flights to Chongqing & Macau, enhancing regional links and supporting Visit Malaysia 2026.

Building on the success of its Penang–Chongqing route, Firefly adds new charter flights from Kuching to Chongqing and Tawau to Macau, strengthening MAG’s commitment to growing travel and tourism links between Malaysia and China

Shanghai, 15 October 2025 – Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) today announced an expansion of its China network through new seasonal charter services to Chongqing and Macau, operated by its regional subsidiary, Firefly. The new routes reflect MAG’s continued commitment to strengthening Malaysia–China air connectivity and supporting growing demand for leisure and business travel between both nations. Beginning October 2025, Firefly will operate the following routes in collaboration with Chengdu Spring Travel, one of China’s leading travel agencies: Penang (PEN) – Chongqing (CKG): renewed continuous charter service operating once weekly from October 2025 to March 2026, connecting Penang’s Island attractions and heritage landmarks with one of Western China’s most vibrant metropolises. Tawau (TWU) – Macau (MFM): twice-weekly charter flights from October 2025 to March 2026, linking East Malaysia’s coastal and diving destinations with Macau’s dynamic entertainment and heritage scene. Kuching (KCH) – Chongqing (CKG): seasonal charter flights from October to November 2025, offering travellers in Western China direct access to Borneo’s renowned nature, culture and wildlife. Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines from MAG , said, “China remains one of our most important markets, and the renewal of our Penang–Chongqing service alongside new routes from Kuching and Tawau operated by Firefly marks a significant step forward in our China growth strategy. These routes make travel between our two nations easier and more direct, creating opportunities for tourism, business and cultural exchange. They also reflect the strength of our partnership with Chengdu Spring Travel and our ongoing commitment to supporting Malaysia’s tourism ambitions ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026. Zhou Peng Xin, Chairman of Chengdu Spring Travel , said, “We are delighted to deepen our partnership with Malaysia Aviation Group and Firefly to bring more convenient air connections between China and Malaysia. The success of the Penang–Chongqing service has proven the strong interest among Chinese travellers in Malaysia’s beautiful destinations, cuisine and culture. Through these new routes, we look forward to bringing even more visitors to experience Malaysia’s hospitality, while giving Malaysians easier access to explore the charm of Western China. Together, we aim to promote sustainable, long-term growth in tourism and friendship between our two nations.” The expansion builds upon the success of Firefly’s Penang–Chongqing service, which has recorded consistently strong load factors since its introduction, connecting Malaysia’s northern tourism hub with one of Western China’s most dynamic cities. The addition of the Kuching–Chongqing and Tawau–Macau services further enhance MAG’s ability to connect Malaysian leisure destinations with China’s fast-developing regional markets, offering travellers greater choice, shorter journey times and direct access to new experiences. Firefly, a wholly owned subsidiary of MAG, is Malaysia’s leading community and leisure airline, offering short- and medium-haul services across the region. All charter services between Malaysia and China are operated using Firefly’s Boeing 737-800 aircraft, configured with 189 Economy Class seats. Passengers travelling with Firefly can look forward to a comfortable cabin experience, complemented by thoughtfully curated in-flight meals and refreshments. Together with seamless connectivity via Malaysia Airlines’ extensive network, Firefly ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience from start to finish.