Chongqing Airlines Launched New Kota Kinabalu Flights
The carrier introduced a three-time-weekly route to support tourism growth in the Malaysian state of Sabah.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Asia
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Chongqing Airlines has inaugurated a direct flight service between Chongqing and Kota Kinabalu. The move supports upcoming regional tourism initiatives ahead of the 2027 campaign.
Why it matters
This expansion aims to boost visitor numbers from the Chinese market to Malaysia. It serves as a key pillar in preparing the state of Sabah for the Visit Sabah Year 2027.
The new service establishes three direct flights per week connecting Chongqing to Kota Kinabalu. Ten representatives from the Sabah tourism industry are coordinating these efforts.
The players
Chongqing Airlines
This Chinese carrier operates the new direct flight service linking major regional hubs.
Sabah
This Malaysian state is actively expanding its international tourism footprint through targeted marketing campaigns.
The details
Sabah tourism officials hosted a business-to-consumer roadshow in Chongqing to showcase the state's offerings. The event highlighted local islands, wildlife, nature, culture, and adventure experiences to Chinese travel partners.
Timeline
September 19, 2026: The Sabah Business to Consumer Roadshow took place in Chongqing.
2027: The Visit Sabah Year campaign is scheduled to occur.
Travel Outlook
The surge in connectivity follows a push to capitalize on the upcoming Visit Sabah Year 2027 campaign. These efforts mirror broader regional shifts where Southeast Asian destinations are aggressively targeting the Chinese market to stabilize long-term tourism growth.
Travelers seeking to visit Malaysia can now utilize these three weekly direct flights from Chongqing to reach Kota Kinabalu more efficiently. Visitors should monitor 2027 travel dates, as the upcoming campaign will likely feature unique regional festivals and events.
The takeaway
Direct flight routes are essential components for regional tourism boards aiming to increase their international market share. Future travelers to Sabah should plan their trips around the 2027 events calendar to experience the full scope of local cultural and adventure offerings.
Further reading
Explore the latest developments across the region in our Asia travel section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Star.
Live Poll
Do you plan to visit Sabah for their tourism campaign in 2027?
