Batik Air launches direct Guangzhou–Kuching route, under 4-hour flight time

The inaugural Batik Air flight from Guangzhou arrives in Kuching, opening a direct route that cuts travel time to under four hours and boosts tourism and business links.

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Mar 18: The inaugural Batik Air direct flight from Guangzhou arrived at Kuching International Airport today, marking a new route linking southern China to Sarawak with a flight time of about three hours and 45 minutes.

Sarawak Deputy Minister of Transport (Maritime and Riverine) Henry Harry Jinep, representing Minister of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the flight carried about 145 passengers and was nearly full.

“The relatively short travel time strengthens Kuching’s accessibility and is expected to support tourism and business travel.

“This is a direct flight within three hours and 45 minutes, which is an advantage compared to connecting routes,” he told reporters after officiating the arrival.

Henry (third from right) after a press conference following the inaugural Batik Air direct flight from Guangzhou on Mar 18.

Henry said MOTS is working to increase direct international connectivity, particularly within a three- to six-hour flight radius, as part of efforts to support the state’s economic development.

Touching on Sarawak’s planned state carrier, AirBorneo, he said securing landing rights in foreign countries will take time as the airline is new and lacks an international operating record.

He added that the State continues to work with existing carriers including Batik Air, AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines (MAS) to improve connectivity under MOTS.

Additional flights have also been arranged for the Hari Raya Aidilfitri period, with high passenger traffic expected at Kuching International Airport.

Looking ahead to peak travel periods, Henry said additional flights have been scheduled for the Hari Raya Aidilfitri period with high passenger traffic expected at Kuching International Airport. — DayakDaily