Direct Flights from Shenzhen to Penang
SZX → PEN · 4 hours 15 minutes · 2 carriers
Can you fly direct from Shenzhen to Penang?
Yes. AirAsia, Shenzhen Airlines operate direct service between Shenzhen (SZX) and Penang (PEN). Approximate flight time: 4 hours 15 minutes. Days and frequency change — confirm with the airline before booking.
Shenzhen to Penang opened up as a direct route when AirAsia launched it in October 2024, with Shenzhen Airlines also serving the city. The route links southern China's tech hub and the wider Greater Bay Area to Penang in around four and a quarter hours.
Airlines on the SZX–PEN Route
AirAsia
Launched October 20246-7 flights/week
Flight codes: AK1690 / AK1691
AirAsia launched the Penang–Shenzhen route on 28 October 2024, the low-cost option on the corridor.
Shenzhen Airlines
Multiple weekly flights
Flight codes: ZH335 / ZH336
Shenzhen Airlines also serves the route with Airbus narrow-body aircraft, flying alongside AirAsia.
Schedules and fares change frequently — confirm current days, timings and prices directly with the airline before booking.
Visa & Entry for China (Guangdong) 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 Shenzhen to Penang?
Yes. AirAsia, Shenzhen Airlines operate scheduled service between Shenzhen (SZX) and Penang (PEN). Approximate flight time is 4 hours 15 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 (Guangdong)?
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.