Travelers looking to journey between the vibrant island of Penang, Malaysia, and the scenic coastal city of Xiamen, China, will find a variety of flight options to suit different schedules and budgets. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of available flight routes, airport information, travel FAQs, and local highlights to help you plan a seamless journey with Traveloka.
Direct Flights
If speed and convenience are priorities, direct flights are the best choice for covering the approximate 1,780 miles (2,865 km) between Penang International Airport and Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport. These routes minimize travel time and remove the need for layovers and transits.
Direct Flight Details
- Operator: Xiamen Airlines
- Frequency: 5 times per week
- Flight Duration: Approximately 4 hours
- Departure Times: Typically between 19:30 and 19:40 from Penang, arriving in Xiamen at around 23:40–23:45 (check with the latest schedule for specific days)
- Aircraft: Boeing 737-800
- Classes Available: Economy and Business
Direct flights provide an efficient route, ideal for business travelers, tourists with tight schedules, or anyone seeking to avoid the hassle of airport transfers and extended stopovers. To book or explore more about Penang International Airport, visit Penang Intl. For details about arrivals and services at the Chinese destination, see Gaoqi Airport.
Layover Flights
Layover flights offer flexibility in travel dates, potential cost savings, or the opportunity to experience another city en route. Below are the main layover flight options between Penang and Xiamen.
1. Penang → Shanghai Pudong → Xiamen
- Airlines: Shanghai Airlines, China Eastern
- Total Flight Duration: 15 hours 45 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 737, Airbus A320
- Layover: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), 8 hours 25 minutes
2. Penang → Guangzhou Baiyun → Xiamen
- Airlines: China Southern
- Total Flight Duration: 8 hours 35 minutes
- Aircraft: Airbus A320neo, Boeing 737MAX 8 Passenger
- Layover: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), 3 hours 10 minutes
3. Penang → Kuala Lumpur → Xiamen
- Airlines: Malaysia Airlines
- Total Flight Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 737
- Layover: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), 1 hour 55 minutes
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
About Penang Intl - Penang
Location
Penang International Airport (PEN) is situated in Bayan Lepas, approximately 16 kilometers south of George Town, the capital city of Penang. Its strategic placement provides easy access to Penang’s urban centers and tourist areas.
Book your flights or learn more about Penang Intl here
Airport Terminal
The airport consists of a modern terminal building accommodating both international and domestic flights. Facilities are designed for comfort and efficiency, with clear signage and multiple check-in counters.
Transport to Airport
Travelers can reach the airport via:
- Taxi: Readily available across Penang, including pre-booked and ride-hailing apps.
- Public Bus: Rapid Penang buses, such as routes 401, 401E, and others, connect the airport with key points in George Town and the island.
- Car Rentals: Several car rental agencies operate at the terminal.
- Hotel Shuttles: Many major hotels provide direct shuttle services with advance arrangement.
Facilities
Penang International Airport offers:
- Free WiFi throughout the terminal
- Duty-free shops, convenience stores, and souvenir outlets
- Local and international dining options
- ATMs and currency exchange counters
- Prayer rooms, baby care facilities, and dedicated lounges
- Car parking spaces for short and long stays
- Information desks and lost & found services
About Gaoqi Airport - Xiamen
Location
Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) is on Xiamen Island, about 10 kilometers northeast of downtown Xiamen. Its central location makes it highly accessible to both business districts and tourist attractions.
Learn more about Gaoqi Airport
Airport Terminal
Gaoqi Airport comprises multiple terminals, with most international arrivals and departures processed through Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. The terminals are modern, spacious, and equipped with bilingual signage for English and Chinese speakers.
Transport From Airport
Upon arrival, passengers can choose from:
- Taxi: Taxis are available outside all terminal buildings, providing direct access to most parts of Xiamen.
- Airport Shuttle Buses: Several lines connect the airport with downtown Xiamen and key hotels.
- Public Transit: Local buses operate from the airport to city areas, ferry terminals, and the Xiamen Railway Station.
- Car Rentals: On-site rental services for travelers preferring private vehicles.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Popular in China for convenient, app-based transport booking.
Facilities
Travelers can utilize:
- Free WiFi and internet kiosks
- An extensive range of shops, including duty-free and local specialties
- Restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets
- VIP and business lounges
- ATMs, currency exchange, and banking services
- Lost & found counter and medical clinic
- Family-friendly amenities and accessible facilities for persons with disabilities
FAQ Penang to Xiamen Flight
- How long is the direct flight from Penang to Xiamen? The average direct flight time is approximately 4 hours.
- Which airlines operate direct flights between Penang and Xiamen? Xiamen Airlines currently operates direct, non-stop flights on this route.
- How often do direct flights operate between Penang and Xiamen? There are typically 5 direct flights per week, usually scheduled in the evening.
- What is the average fare for flights from Penang to Xiamen? Prices vary, but one-way fares often start from around $132, with round-trip options from $180, especially during low-demand periods.
- Are there business class seats available on direct flights? Yes, both Economy and Business Class seats are available on Xiamen Airlines.
- What kind of aircraft is used for these direct flights? The route generally uses Boeing 737-800 aircraft for direct services.
- Do I need a visa to travel from Penang to Xiamen? Requirements depend on your nationality. Malaysian passport holders typically require a visa for travel to Mainland China. It is advisable to check with the Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest information.
- Can I get from Penang to Xiamen via other cities in Malaysia or China? Yes, there are layover options available through cities like Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, with varying layover durations and airline options.
Other Ways to Travel From Penang to Xiamen
Aside from flying, there are no direct train, bus, or ferry services connecting Penang to Xiamen, as the route crosses the South China Sea. However, adventurous travelers could combine land and sea travel:
- Land & Ferry Route (via Mainland Malaysia and Thailand, then sea crossing to China): It is theoretically possible, though not practical, to travel overland from Penang to northern Malaysia or Thailand, then catch a long-distance ferry or cargo ship to a Chinese port, and onward by domestic transport to Xiamen. This journey can take several days or more.
- Multi-modal (via Kuala Lumpur or Singapore): Travelers might fly from Penang to a major Southeast Asian hub (like Singapore or Kuala Lumpur) and then transfer to a direct or connecting flight to Xiamen.
Due to the geographical separation, air travel remains by far the fastest and most convenient means.
Explore Xiamen
Popular Destinations in Xiamen
- Gulangyu Island: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for colonial architecture, piano museums, and scenic gardens.
- Nanputuo Temple: A famous Buddhist temple with centuries-old structures, located at the foot of Wulao Mountain.
- Huandao Road (Island Ring Road): A picturesque coastal highway ideal for cycling and sightseeing, offering panoramic sea views.
- Xiamen University: Renowned as one of China’s most beautiful campuses, open to visitors for its serene lakes and historical buildings.
- Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street: The city’s busiest commercial street, lined with shops, eateries, and preserved architecture.
Popular Cuisine in Xiamen
- Shacha Noodles: Wheat noodles in a rich and mildly spicy broth made from shacha sauce, a local Xiamen specialty.
- Seafood (especially oysters, clams, and shrimp): Xiamen is famed for its fresh seafood, often served grilled, sauteed, or in hot pots.
- Peanut Soup: A sweet, creamy dessert soup made from finely ground peanuts, a traditional local treat.
- Xiamen Spring Rolls: Thin pancakes wrapped around fillings of pork, vegetables, and seafood, then lightly fried.
- Worm Jelly (Muzha): A unique Xiamen delicacy made from a type of marine worm, served chilled with sauces – an adventurous choice for foodies.
Whether you’re planning a quick business trip or in-depth exploration, the Penang–Xiamen route offers flexible flight options and easy onward connections. Ensure the best deals and a seamless booking experience with Traveloka, your trusted travel partner for flights from Penang Intl and arrivals at Gaoqi Airport. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure in Xiamen!