In response to the strong response during the Chinese New Year travel period, Batik Air officially has launched its latest domestic route, direct Penang / Johor Bahru flights, with the inaugural flight on 18th March 2026, just before the 4 day Hari Raya break. This enhanced connectivity between the northern and southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia mirrors the recently completed ETS Rail service, saving travellers time and travel stress. It also offers travellers a faster and more convenient way to travel between two of the country’s most vibrant economic and tourism centres.
The new once daily direct Penang / Johor flights have been introduced following encouraging demand seen during the recent Chinese New Year travel period, when additional flights between Penang and Johor Bahru were introduced to accommodate the surge of passengers returning home for festive reunions. This strong response highlighted the growing need for more direct domestic connections beyond Kuala Lumpur.
Penang International Airport handled 741,183 passenger movements in January 2026, Malaysia’s second busiest aviation gateway behind Kuala Lumpur International Airport, while Johor Bahru’s Senai International Airport continues to show growth as an important gateway into southern Malaysia and the wider Johor region. By establishing this permanent direct link between the two cities, Batik Air aims to ease travel stress between the northern and southern corridors of the peninsula by offering travellers a convenient alternative to long overland journeys. This new route also supports tourism, business mobility and regional economic activity in both locations and their surroundings.
Batik Air CEO, Chandran Rama Muthy said the launch of the Penang–Johor Bahru service reflects the airline’s commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s domestic air network in line with evolving travel patterns.
…. These two cities play important roles in Malaysia’s tourism, trade and business landscape, and this service brings them closer together while making travel more seamless for passengers.
He added that during Visit Malaysia Year 2026, strengthening domestic connectivity remains a key priority in supporting the nation’s tourism ambitions and economic momentum.
Batik Air will continue to explore opportunities to expand routes that improve accessibility between key regions across Malaysia. The Penang–Johor Bahru service marks another step in building a more connected domestic network that supports tourism growth, business exchanges and greater mobility for travellers.
For more information and to book your next journey, download the Batik Air mobile app or visit www.batikair.com.my.
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