Malaysia Airlines Announces Direct Route
Malaysia Airlines has officially announced the resumption of its direct flights connecting Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Kolkata, India, after an 18-year hiatus. Set to commence on December 2, the airline will offer five weekly flights utilizing a Boeing 737-800 aircraft. This route will operate on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, catering to the growing tourist demand between these two vibrant cities.
Significance of Kolkata as a Tourist Destination
Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, serves as a significant cultural and tourist hub in India. Known for its historical landmarks and rich arts scene, Kolkata attracts millions of visitors each year. The resumption of the Kuala Lumpur-Kolkata route is seen as an essential development in improving connectivity and enhancing tourism between Malaysia and India.
Impact of Visa-Free Entry Policy
Industry experts attribute the revival of this route to the surge in Indian tourists traveling to Malaysia, facilitated by a recent visa-free entry policy. Since December of the previous year, Indian citizens have been eligible for visa-free entry to Malaysia for stays of up to 30 days. Datuk Aruldass, president of the Malaysian Indian Tour and Travel Association, noted that Indian tourist numbers spiked by 80% from 2023 to this year, following the introduction of this beneficial visa exemption.
