Malaysia Airlines is making big moves in the Australian market, following news of an increase in services between Kuala Lumpur and Sydney. Not long after the carrier’s announcement of expanded routes to Sydney Airport, Malaysia Airlines is now set to launch direct nonstop flights from its hub to Brisbane in Queensland. This exciting development comes as part of a strategic collaboration between Malaysia Airlines, Brisbane Airport, and Tourism and Events Queensland. The partnership aims to boost tourism and enhance air connectivity between Malaysia and Queensland.

The three parties recently signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to kick off a three-year collaboration, signaling the start of Malaysia Airlines’ network expansion plans. The direct Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane service is scheduled to commence on November 29, 2025, with five weekly flights. This new route is expected to bring about significant economic and tourism benefits, strengthening ties between the two regions.

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to providing passengers with more direct flight options. By teaming up with Brisbane Airport and Tourism and Events Queensland, the airline aims to enhance connectivity and offer passengers a seamless travel experience rooted in comfort and exceptional service.

Brisbane Airport also welcomed the return of Malaysia Airlines, recognizing the importance of the Kuala Lumpur hub for travelers connecting to key markets in Asia and Europe. Anthony Cicuttini, SVP and Head of Aviation Business Development at Brisbane Airport, expressed delight at Malaysia Airlines’ return and emphasized the shared success that the partnership will bring in driving traffic and trade across the network.

Tourism and Events Queensland shared in the excitement, highlighting the positive impact this collaboration will have on the state’s visitor economy. Craig Davidson, CEO of Tourism and Events Queensland, emphasized the partnership’s role in making it easier for travelers from across Asia to explore Queensland’s diverse attractions, from the Great Barrier Reef to vibrant cities and golden coasts.

This move by Malaysia Airlines comes after the respective governments of Malaysia and Australia agreed to increase air rights between the two countries. With the weekly permitted seats raised to 50,000, Malaysia Airlines is seizing the opportunity to expand its presence in the Australian market. The carrier’s decision to increase services between Kuala Lumpur and Sydney indicates its commitment to meeting the growing demand for flights between the two destinations, ultimately enhancing travel options for passengers.