Malaysia adds three international airlines linking Asia, Africa routes

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's aviation network has added three new international airlines, with AeroDili and Air Algerie commencing operations at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and Qingdao Airlines launching services to Penang International Airport. 

Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd said Timor-Leste's AeroDili began operations on March 28, followed by Algeria's Air Algerie on March 30, while China's Qingdao Airlines started flights to Penang on March 31. 

Qingdao Airlines operates thrice-weekly flights from Qingdao, becoming the ninth Chinese carrier serving Penang International Airport, the airport operator said in a statement. 

AeroDili operates twice-weekly direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Timor-Leste, while Air Algerie will operate three times weekly. Its inaugural flight was fully booked, indicating strong demand. 

The Air Algerie service opens a new North African corridor with no direct competition, complementing existing African connectivity via Ethiopian Airlines and Air Mauritius. 

Malaysia Airports managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said the additions form part of the group's efforts to expand its airline network.

"They enhance connectivity and service quality while creating long-term value for passengers, airline partners and the wider economy. 

"Our focus is on building a resilient, demand-driven network that supports tourism, trade and regional mobility, and we are actively pursuing new airline partnerships and routes to expand Malaysia's global reach," he said.

-nst online.