Malaysia Airlines has resumed direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Fukuoka, restoring a route that gives travellers a direct connection to Japan’s Kyushu region.

The first flight, MH56, departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 at 11.45pm on 2 September and arrived at Fukuoka International Airport at 7.05am on 3 September.

The Boeing 737-8 service recorded an 88% load factor on its outbound flight, while the return service posted a 90% load factor.

The route will operate up to five times weekly, bringing Malaysia Airlines’ total services to Japan to 26 flights a week, alongside existing flights to Tokyo via Narita and Osaka.

The resumed service also expands connectivity under the Malaysia Airlines-Japan Airlines Joint Business partnership. Through the codeshare arrangement, passengers travelling via Fukuoka can connect to Japan Airlines domestic services to destinations including Sapporo, Kagoshima, Miyazaki, Kochi, Matsuyama, Tokushima, Amami, Izumo and Yakushima.

Passengers travelling from Japan can also connect through Kuala Lumpur to destinations across Malaysia, ASEAN, South Asia and Australasia.

The route’s resumption comes as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia 2026, providing another direct air link for Japanese visitors travelling to the country.

The return to Fukuoka was marked by a water cannon salute at Fukuoka International Airport, followed by a ceremony attended by representatives from Malaysia Aviation Group, the Malaysian and Japanese governments and Fukuoka International Airport Co Ltd.

Malaysia Airlines is also offering a promotion of up to 30% off under its MATTA Fair campaign for bookings made by 14 September 2026. Enrich members can receive an additional 5% discount, while eligible VISA card payments made through Malaysia Airlines’ website or mobile app qualify for another 5% off. 

Source: Business Today