Royal Brunei Airlines’ (RB) latest route to Chennai not only broadens travel options and enhances cultural exchange between Brunei and India but also sets the sultanate as a gateway to other regional destinations and opens new economic opportunities, said minister.
In his remarks at the recent launch of RB’s Brunei-Chennai route, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications said that the new route stands as a testament to RB’s unwavering commitment to expanding its global footprint, enhancing air connectivity, and strengthening bonds with vital markets around the world.
“Through this initiative, we are not only opening new avenues for travel but also deepening the ties that unite our nations,” said Yang Berhormat Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha.
RB’s flight to Chennai which will commence on 5 November 2024 marks the 21st city pairs connected to Bandar Seri Begawan, spanning 18 countries.
It will operate three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai, aboard RB’s state-of-the-art Airbus A320neo.
The minister added that the expansion reflects Brunei’s ongoing commitment to enhancing global connectivity, as demonstrated by the 40 Air Services Agreements established worldwide.
“While we continue to see improvements in air passenger traffic numbers at Brunei International Airport, we are currently at 60 per cent pre-COVID levels for air traffic passengers, of which Royal Brunei Airlines is a key contributor to these numbers,” he said.
YB Pengiran Dato Shamhary also urged RB to remain proactive in seeking out new connectivities through the availability of signed Air Service Agreements.
“As a facilitator and enabler, the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications will continue to strive to establish new agreements with countries but also encourage airlines to make use of already established agreements,” he said.
The minister also stated the connection will introduce Brunei to new waves of Indian tourists, further strengthening the local tourism industry and positioning Brunei as a transit hub for travellers exploring the ASEAN region and beyond.
“With nearly 15,000 Indian nationals residing and working in Brunei, this new route to Chennai will make it significantly easier for them to travel, particularly within the Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR) segment,” said the minister.
The direct airlink between Brunei and Chennai is hoped to facilitate cargo movement and stimulate new market exploration, benefiting industries and economies in both Brunei and India.
The minister also announced that Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) is set to an investment seminar for the Indian market during the inaugural flight week, showcasing Brunei’s business-friendly environment and investment opportunities.
RB and BEDB will also host a Brunei Night in Chennai to promote Brunei’s tourism, supported by the Brunei High Commission in India and Brunei Tourism.
Furthermore, the minister underscored the importance of reaffirming commitment to safety and sustainability in aviation.
“Safety is not merely a priority—it is the foundation of everything we do. Royal Brunei Airlines’ success as a global connector, rests on its dedication to maintaining the highest safety standards, ensuring that passengers, crew, and cargo travel with complete confidence and peace of mind,” he stressed.
The minister is also pleased with RB’s move to invest in cleaner and greener technologies in its bid to reduce the carbon aviation footprint.
On his part, RB’s Chief Executive Officer Captain Sabirin Haji Abd Hamid the national carrier’s commitment to providing superior travel experience remains at the forefront of everything they do.
“Passengers on this route will enjoy the latest in technology and comfort aboard our Airbus A320neo, paired with the warm Bruneian hospitality and exceptional service, grounded in the principles of care, community, and ikhlas – sincerely from the heart by our world-renowned cabin crew,” he said.
Dubbed as the gateway to South India, Chennai is a city steeped in culture, commerce, and innovation.
With its rich heritage and bustling business environment, the city is an ideal destination for leisure and business travellers.
Present at the launching ceremony were Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah; Minister of Development cum Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Muhammad Juanda Haji Abdul Rashid; Deputy Minister at Prime Minister’s Office cum Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines Dato Seri Paduka Mohd Riza Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yunos; High Commissioner of India to Brunei Darussalam Alok Amitabh Dimri; President of Indian Chamber of Commerce in Brunei Darussalam Nazeer Ahmad; Board of Directors, Permanent Secretary, Deputy Permanent Secretaries as well as management and staff of RB.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
