By V. Sivaji

The commencement of IndiGo Airlines direct flights from Bengaluru to Langkawi is already having a positive impact on local tourism and related industries.

The direct flights commenced Dec 16, 2024.

A brief survey by Penang Hyperlocal on hotels, eateries and shopping areas on the island shows that they are experiencing brisk business especially in Kuah and Pantai Cenang.

Other sectors benefiting from the arrival of Indian tourists are transport providers, tourism destinations and also island hopping service operators.

We spoke to the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Kedah/Perlis Chapter chairman Eugene Dass for his views on the matter.

“Feedback from member hotels is that IndiGo Airlines has contributed to the local tourism by bringing in guests to significantly improve occupancy in beach hotels and also those in Kuah town.

“Such direct impact initiatives are much welcomed by MAH and we look forward to opening up other new markets,” said Dass.

Meanwhile, Amirul Syafiq Abdullah, Vice chairman Kedah Tourist Guides Association said that Indigo Airlines flights are boosting tourism sector in Langkawi transport providers, eateries hotels, souvenirs shops and related segments

“Also popular are local tourist attractions like the Cable Car, Mangrove tour, Island hopping, Wildlife Park, Underwater World among others.

“However, there are many unlicensed tourist guide operators on the prowl, we request the relevant authorities to look into this matter immediately,” he said.

Meanwhile, other hotels experiencing good occupancy rates in Langkawi are Aloft Langkawi Pantai Cenang, PARKROYAL Langkawi Resort, Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang, Holiday Villa Langkawi, Dash Resort Langkawi, Pelangi Beach Resort Langkawi, The St Regis Langkawi to name a few.

Indigo Airlines is also flying directly from Chennai to Penang and Bangalore to Kuala Lumpur on a daily basis.