Malaysia and Turkey strengthen ties with inaugural Batik Air flight to Kuala Lumpur

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, together with officials from Batik Air and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), extended a personal welcome to passengers of the first Batik Air flight from Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, Istanbul, as it landed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The aircraft received a ceremonial water salute from MAHB, signifying a warm reception for those aboard Flight OD724.

Launching a new service that flies directly four times a week using the Airbus A330-300, which can accommodate 377 passengers and departs every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, this service represents a significant achievement in boosting tourism flow between the two cities and enhancing global connections through Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) in Istanbul, Turkey.

Between January and November 2023, Malaysia recorded 15,623 visitors from Turkey, witnessing a 10.8% increase from the 14,096 arrivals during the same period in 2019, thus surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Tourism Malaysia is committed to forging strategic alliances and partnerships with international carriers to stimulate more travel from Turkey.

« Back to Page

• Hong Kong Airlines expands Airbus A330-300 widebody aircraft and enhances recruitment effort