SHANGHAI: Spring Airlines will double its Shanghai–Kota Kinabalu service to two flights daily from December, boosting Sabah’s air connectivity ahead of Visit Sabah 2027.
The plan was announced during Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin’s meeting with Li Jian, assistant president of Spring Group.
The expansion increases the route from seven to 14 flights a week.
Jafry said the added frequency would provide more seats from one of Sabah’s key markets.
“More flights mean more seats and better access for visitors from China as we build momentum towards Visit Sabah 2027,” he said.
The move comes as Spring Airlines converts its Kota Kinabalu operation from non-scheduled to scheduled services, securing long-term connectivity between the two cities.
It comes despite rising operating costs. The airline said fuel prices rose about 67 percent between February and September, with fuel accounting for about 35 percent of operating costs.
Jafry said the decision showed continued confidence in Sabah.
“Our priority is to strengthen connectivity and make Sabah easier to reach,” he said. – Wu Vuide
Jafry presents a memento to Li Jian.
