Penang looks to Europe with first Poland winter charter

GEORGE TOWN: Penang is set to launch its first charter flight from Poland in November, targeting the European market during the winter travel season.

The island, known for its sunny beaches and heritage, is seeking to strengthen its foothold in the European tourism market.

State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the Warsaw-Penang service would serve as a stepping stone for Penang to gain a foothold in the European tourism market.

"Penang's first Poland winter charter flight is a stepping stone to unlock the European market," he said in a statement today.

The service, operated by a travel agency and flown by LOT Polish Airlines, is scheduled to begin on Nov 5 and run until March 25 next year.

The weekly service will depart Warsaw Chopin Airport every Thursday and arrive at Penang International Airport, with 19 flights expected throughout the winter season. Each flight is expected to carry between 250 and 300 tourists.

Wong said diversifying Penang's international tourist source markets was crucial to strengthening the resilience of the state's tourism industry.

The charter programme will offer eight tourism packages designed specifically for Polish travellers, with visitors able to select two packages. The packages will cover Penang's culture, history, natural attractions and way of life.

The packages will offer seven- or 14-day stays combining city exploration with beach holidays, he said.

"The new service will not only further strengthen Penang's international air connectivity, but also open an important window for Penang's tourism industry to expand into the European market," he said.

Wong said the state government would closely monitor market response and visitor demand and explore similar winter charter partnerships with tourism operators and airline partners in other European countries.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will table the 2027 Budget in Parliament on Friday.