Malaysia Airlines celebrates the resumption of direct flights to Chengdu, capital of the province of Szechuan strengthening connectivity between Malaysia and South Western China on 9th January 2026. The airline is also pleased to note that the resumption of flights from Kuala Lumpur to Chengdu reinforces its long-term commitment to the Greater China market and strengthening connectivity between Malaysia and Western China. These direct flights to Chengdu also support Malaysia’s inbound tourism ambitions during Visit Malaysia 2026 (#VM2026).
Chengdu’s position in Western China makes the city a melting pot of diverse communities and for Muslim Malaysians visiting the city, they can be assured of the easy availability of Halal food, Mosques and other Muslim friendly activities. The city has a very long history, being in existence for over 2,000 years and you can walk around the prominent grave of Liu Bei, founder of the Shu Han state, whose legacy is honoured at the Wuhou Shrine. Chengdu was the capital of the Shu Han kingdom between 221 and 263 AD.
The flight attracted strong demand, achieving an impressive load factor of 91% on its outbound leg, the inaugural flight MH526 on 9th January. As a special tribute to the strong following of Manchester United among fans in Chengdu, the flight which departed from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) Terminal 1 to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), was operated using the airline’s Manchester United-themed aircraft livery, adding a celebratory touch to the occasion. A commemorative send-off event was held where passengers were farewelled with true Malaysian Hospitality and presented with exclusive Malaysia Airlines merchandise. The event was attended by prominent representatives from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), making for a celebratory and memorable send-off for the new route.
With the addition of Chengdu, Malaysia Airlines now serves seven destinations across Greater China, reflecting continued confidence in the market. Operating seven times weekly, the route will support growing two-way travel demand, strengthening business and leisure connectivity and offering passengers seamless onward connections via Kuala Lumpur to destinations across ASEAN, South Asia and Australasia. The timing of the service aligns with the extension of mutual visa-free travel arrangements between Malaysia and China, enabling longer stays and encouraging greater travel flows between both countries.
The relaunch also highlights the broader strength of Malaysia–China relations across the MAG ecosystem, following MASkargo’s recent special-cargo operation transporting Malaysia’s new giant pandas from Chengdu to Kuala Lumpur under the renewed bilateral conservation agreement. Make sure you visit the Panda Sanctuary when you are there, it’s definitely worth the trip. Book your tickets on their official website, their mobile app or your preferred travel agent.
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