Penang has received its first direct long-haul charter flight from Warsaw, Poland, as the state looks to attract more European tourists.
The LOT Polish Airlines flight, LO6519, landed at Penang International Airport at 9.45am, carrying more than 200 passengers. The charter programme, organised by Panorama with its European partner, will operate weekly from November 4, 2026, until March 2027, with 19 flights scheduled throughout the European winter season.
Programme expected to bring RM30 million in tourism revenue
The programme is expected to bring around 4,000 international tourists to Penang and generate more than RM30 million in tourism-related economic benefits.
Visitors are expected to spend on hotels, restaurants, transport, shopping and tourist attractions, benefiting businesses across the state’s tourism industry.
Penang executive councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy Wong Hon Wai said the new charter service would help diversify the state’s tourism markets and strengthen its international connectivity. He added that European visitors, particularly those from countries with higher spending power, could bring additional economic benefits to local businesses.
Polish-language guide prepared for visitors
To help Polish tourists explore the state, Penang Global Tourism has prepared a brochure in Polish featuring local attractions, cultural heritage, history, beaches and food.
The state government also plans to continue exploring long-haul markets as it seeks to strengthen Penang’s position as an international tourism destination.
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