Royal Brunei Airlines has launched direct flights between Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei, and Chennai. The new route promises to strengthen cultural, economic, and tourism exchanges between the two nations. The inaugural flight, an Airbus A320NEO, was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute as it touched down in Chennai on Tuesday night, signalling a new chapter in air connectivity between South Asia and Southeast Asia.
This new direct air link aims to capitalise on the booming travel and tourism sectors in both countries. India, with its rapidly growing economy and increasing outbound travel, has become one of Brunei’s key tourism markets. In 2024 alone, nearly 4,000 Indian tourists visited Brunei, reinforcing the importance of air links for fostering deeper people-to-people connections. Additionally, over 14,000 Indians are employed across various industries in Brunei, underlining the long-standing economic ties between the two nations. According to Captain CEO of Royal Brunei Airlines, the new route will not only provide expanded travel options for Indians looking to explore Brunei but will also boost trade and tourism between the two nations. “India is a significant aviation market, and with the economic boom in the country, there is immense potential for growth in both passenger numbers and business,” said Hamid during a press interaction.
The Chennai-Bandar Seri Begawan flights will operate three times a week – on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays – with round-trip fares starting at Rs 31,000. This route will offer seamless connectivity to other destinations in the Royal Brunei Airlines network, such as Hong Kong, Manila, Seoul, and Melbourne. The airline’s expansion into India is a strategic move aimed at diversifying its global footprint while providing Brunei’s national carrier with greater access to India’s bustling aviation market. Looking ahead, the airline has expressed interest in expanding its services further, with plans to launch direct flights between Bandar Seri Begawan and Delhi. While the next destination is still under review, this growing connectivity between Brunei and India signals an exciting period for both nations, offering fresh opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment.
From a sustainability perspective, this new service also holds promise for greener travel options. Royal Brunei Airlines operates a fleet of Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners and Airbus A320NEOs, both of which are recognised for their fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions compared to older aircraft. With a growing focus on environmental impact, the airline’s use of modern, eco-friendly aircraft aligns with global efforts to reduce aviation-related emissions. Overall, the launch of the Chennai-Bandar Seri Begawan route is not just a new flight path but a bridge between two cultures and economies. It highlights the potential of strategic air connectivity to create lasting bonds that extend beyond the skies, fostering long-term growth, cooperation, and mutual understanding.
