Royal Brunei Airlines, the national carrier of Brunei, has launched direct flights between the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai, aiming to deepen the relationship between the two countries, the airline’s top official announced on Wednesday (November 6).
An Airbus A320NEO, carrying passengers from Brunei, was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute upon its arrival in Chennai on Tuesday at 10:50 PM local time, according to Captain Sabirin bin Hj Abdul Hamid, CEO of Royal Brunei Airlines. The launch of the new service coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Brunei and India.
“India is a major market for aviation. The economy here is booming, and the aviation industry is also growing rapidly. There is a strong cultural connection between Chennai and Brunei,” Captain Hamid said in a statement to the press.
Chennai-Bandar Seri Begawan flights details
Flights between Chennai and Bandar Seri Begawan will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with round-trip tickets available at an introductory fare of Rs 31,000. This new route significantly expands Royal Brunei Airlines’ global network, offering passengers from Chennai easy access to destinations such as Hong Kong, Manila, Seoul, and Melbourne via Brunei.
Brunei sees strong influx of Indian tourists
India is one of the top 10 countries contributing to tourist arrivals in Brunei, with nearly 4,000 Indian nationals visiting the Southeast Asian country from January to September 2024. Additionally, around 14,000 Indians are employed in various sectors across Brunei. Royal Brunei Airlines had previously operated flights to Kolkata, but this service was discontinued years ago.
“Launching this new route is more than just a flight connection—it is a bridge between two nations. We are thrilled to open new opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between Brunei and India. This route connects Bruneians and international guests to the vibrant city of Chennai and offers expanded travel options for Indians wishing to explore Brunei,” Hamid said.
In response to a question about future expansion plans, Hamid revealed that the airline is considering launching additional routes between Bandar Seri Begawan and other Indian cities, including Delhi. “Our next destination in India is still under study. We may launch a flight connecting Delhi. We are analysing the market,” he said.
The service marks a historic step in strengthening the cultural, economic, and people-to-people ties between Brunei and India, Hamid added.
Royal Brunei Airlines operates a fleet of five Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners and seven Airbus A320NEOs, further expanding its connectivity. The airline’s Indian operations are supported by STIC Travel Group, led by Founder-Chairman Subhash Goyal, who handles ticketing and visa processing for travelers heading to Brunei.