Direct Flights from Chengdu to Penang
TFU → PEN · 4 hours 25 minutes · 1 carrier
Can you fly direct from Chengdu to Penang?
Yes. Sichuan Airlines operate direct service between Chengdu (TFU) and Penang (PEN). Approximate flight time: 4 hours 25 minutes. Days and frequency change — confirm with the airline before booking.
Chengdu to Penang has been a direct route since Sichuan Airlines launched it in April 2025, stepping up to daily flights for the winter season. Flights leave from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), giving travellers from Sichuan and southwest China a non-stop link to the island.
Airlines on the TFU–PEN Route
Sichuan Airlines
Launched April 2025Daily on the winter schedule (launched at 5 flights/week)
Flight codes: 3U3911 / 3U3912
Sichuan Airlines opened the Chengdu Tianfu–Penang route on 30 April 2025 with five weekly flights, then stepped up to daily service for the winter schedule from late October 2025. Operated with Airbus A320 / A321neo aircraft.
Schedules and fares change frequently — confirm current days, timings and prices directly with the airline before booking.
Visa & Entry for China (Sichuan) Nationals
Chinese nationals can currently enter Malaysia visa-free for short tourist visits — the arrangement has been extended until 31 December 2026. Always confirm the current position at imi.gov.my before travelling.
We do not give immigration advice. Confirm everything with imi.gov.my (Imigresen Malaysia) or the nearest Malaysian mission before you travel — rules can change at short notice and individual cases vary.
Arriving at Penang International Airport (PEN)
PEN is in Bayan Lepas on the south of Penang island, about 16km from George Town where most hotels, restaurants and the heritage zone are. The transfer is straightforward:
- Grab (the regional ride-hailing app) to George Town is around RM 25-40 and takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. Pricing is shown upfront in the app. Download and register before you fly.
- Rapid Penang 401E airport bus to Komtar in central George Town is RM 2.70. Runs roughly every 30 minutes during the day.
- Metered taxis are available landside. Pay at a coupon counter inside the terminal for a fixed-fare option, or use the meter.
- Immigration at PEN is usually quick — under 20 minutes outside Chinese New Year and school holiday peaks.
See Getting Around Penang for moving around the island once you arrive, and Hotels for accommodation options.
Other Direct Routes Into Penang
Penang has direct service from a growing network of Asian cities. See the full list or jump to a specific origin:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there direct flights from Chengdu to Penang?
Yes. Sichuan Airlines operate scheduled service between Chengdu (TFU) and Penang (PEN). Approximate flight time is 4 hours 25 minutes. Days and frequency change with airline schedules — check the airline website for current timings before booking.
Where does the flight arrive in Penang?
Penang International Airport (PEN) is in Bayan Lepas, about 16km south of George Town. Grab (the regional ride-hailing app) to the city centre costs roughly RM 25-40 and takes 25-40 minutes. The Rapid Penang 401E airport bus runs to Komtar for RM 2.70.
Do I need a visa to enter Malaysia from China (Sichuan)?
Chinese nationals can currently enter Malaysia visa-free for short tourist visits — the arrangement has been extended until 31 December 2026. Always confirm the current position at imi.gov.my before travelling. Imigresen Malaysia (imi.gov.my) is the official source of immigration rules. We do not give immigration advice — check before you book.
What is the IATA code for Penang Airport?
PEN. The ICAO code is WMKP. The airport is operated by Malaysia Airports Holdings (MAHB) and handles both international and domestic services.
Can I get a SIM card or money changer at the airport?
Yes. There are several Malaysian mobile providers (Maxis, Celcom, Digi/U Mobile, Yes) with prepaid SIM kiosks landside at PEN, plus moneychangers and ATMs from Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank and RHB. Many travellers prefer to bring a small amount of MYR for the airport transfer and change the rest in George Town where rates are typically better.
Flight schedules, visa rules and fares change regularly. Information on this page is general travel guidance current as at publication — verify with the airline, with imi.gov.my for immigration, and with your bank for currency before you travel.