- The Crisafulli Government secures direct Malaysia Airlines flights between Brisbane and Kuala Lumpur for the first time since 2023.
- Route set to boost Queensland's economy by $54 million in the first year alone.
- Flights to strengthen Queensland's global connectivity by tapping into key Indian growth markets.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy and a fresh start for Queensland.
The Crisafulli Government has secured a sky-high deal with Malaysia Airlines and Brisbane Airport, restoring direct flights to the Sunshine State.
Touching down for the first time in Brisbane this morning, the restored service will serve as a gateway for tens of thousands of international visitors to explore every corner of the State each year.
Restoring direct connectivity to Malaysia, the impact of this flight route surges to new heights by fulfilling one of the key objectives of the Crisafulli Government's Destination 2045 tourism plan; expanding Queensland's visitation by tapping into India's travel market.
The carrier will fly non-stop between Brisbane and Kuala Lumpur, one of Asia's premier transit hubs, providing direct connections to 10 Indian cities.
It has been made possible through the Crisafulli Government's Connecting Queensland Fund, and the service is expected to carry 75,000 inbound seats every year and deliver a $54 million boost to the Queensland economy in the first year alone.
This strong sign of economic growth proves the Crisafulli Government has the tourism industry's back, marking a 180-degree turn for operators who would have been left grappling with Labor's 95 per cent funding cut.
Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said the returned route was a big win for Queensland travellers, opening the door to India which is one of our fastest-growing tourism markets.
"We are supercharging connectivity in this State," Minister Powell said.
"Destination 2045 promises strategic partnerships to expand direct international flights, and less than six months later, we're taking off with a big one.
"Boosting our tourism economy by an extra $54 million means more support for operators at every stage of the journey, and it starts now."
The return of Malaysia Airlines also marks a symbolic milestone for Brisbane Airport - reaching 35 direct international routes, matching its pre-pandemic peak for the first time.
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said the addition of Malaysia Airlines strengthened Queensland's connections with the world.
"The return of Malaysia Airlines is another win for Queensland," Mr de Graaf said.
"With Kuala Lumpur a vibrant, world-class destination and a key gateway to Asia and beyond, the airline's extensive network will open new doors for travellers and trade.
"Malaysia Airlines offers exceptional connectivity into India, and we know this is a rapidly expanding market for Queensland.
"As the world's most populous nation with a growing appetite for travel experiences, India represents a significant opportunity for tourism growth."
The inaugural flight will arrive in Brisbane at around 6am on Sunday 30 November, with the first departure scheduled for 8am that same day.
Flights from Brisbane to Kuala Lumpur will operate five times a week.
