Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) has unveiled its new direct flight service between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai, India, marking a historic moment in the airline’s expansion and the strengthening of diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties between Brunei Darussalam and India. This significant addition to RB’s global network underscores the airline’s commitment to bridging two vibrant nations and enhancing opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Celebrating a Historic Arrival
The inaugural flight, a state-of-the-art Airbus A320neo, landed at Chennai International Airport on November 5, 2024, around 22:50 LT, receiving a celebratory water cannon salute. The momentous event marks the beginning of a new chapter, allowing travellers from both nations to experience each other’s unique offerings firsthand. This launch aligns with RB’s mission to enhance connectivity across Asia and beyond, introducing more people to Brunei’s peaceful charm and economic opportunities.
Building Diplomatic and Economic Ties
In celebration of this new route, Royal Brunei Airlines held a series of events in Chennai, orchestrated in collaboration with the Brunei High Commission in India, the Brunei Economic and Development Board (BEDB), and Brunei Tourism (BT). These activities at the ITC Grand Chola Hotel not only celebrated the route’s debut but also opened doors for business partnerships, showcasing Brunei’s investment-friendly environment to key Indian business leaders.
Press Conference Highlights
At a press conference featuring key figures from Royal Brunei Airlines, including CEO Captain Sabirin bin Hj Abdul Hamid and representatives from Brunei Tourism and STIC Travel Group (RB’s partner agency in India), the speakers emphasized the broader impact of the new route. This new air connection, they explained, would enhance tourism and business opportunities, presenting Brunei as a desirable destination for Indian tourists and a strong partner for trade and investment.
Investment Seminar: Fostering Economic Collaboration
As part of the launch festivities, an investment seminar, led by the BEDB, gathered influential Indian business leaders to highlight Brunei’s favourable investment landscape. The seminar emphasized Brunei’s political stability, modern infrastructure, and its strategic role as a gateway to the ASEAN market. The event served as a platform to promote mutually beneficial partnerships in key sectors such as trade, technology, and tourism, with BEDB representatives providing insight into Brunei’s vibrant economic landscape.
Brunei Night: Celebrating 40 Years of Friendship
The celebrations culminated in Brunei Night, an enchanting evening showcasing the richness of Bruneian culture through traditional performances, authentic cuisine, and a special address by H.E. Dato Paduka Hj Alaihuddin Mohd Taha, Brunei’s High Commissioner to India. Commemorating 40 years of formal diplomatic relations, Brunei Night celebrated a history of shared values and partnership. The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Dr. T.R.B. Rajaa, Tamil Nadu’s Minister of Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce, and Shri S Vijayakumar from the Ministry of External Affairs. Their presence underscored the significance of this new chapter in Brunei-India relations.
Route Details: Connecting Brunei and Chennai
Royal Brunei Airlines will operate three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. This convenient schedule caters to both leisure and business travellers, ensuring flexibility for those exploring new destinations or expanding their business ventures. The service will feature RB’s Airbus A320neo, a modern aircraft celebrated for its fuel efficiency and quiet, comfortable cabin.
The new service also comes with added convenience, thanks to RB’s codeshare agreement with Air India, allowing seamless connections from Chennai to other major cities in RB’s network, including Melbourne, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Singapore, Seoul, Manila, and Taipei. This partnership further broadens RB’s reach and opens up a world of travel options for passengers across Asia.
A Strategic Move Aligned with Regional Vision
This new route strengthens Brunei’s position in South Asia and aligns with India’s ASEAN Tourism Year initiative in 2025. By enhancing connections with ASEAN countries, the route supports regional tourism growth, fosters cultural exchanges, and provides Indian travellers with a new destination rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. This route is part of RB’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the Indian market and aligns with Brunei’s Wawasan 2035 vision to establish a dynamic and globally connected economy.
A Message from RB’s CEO, Captain Sabirin
Captain Sabirin bin Hj Abdul Hamid, CEO of Royal Brunei Airlines, remarked during the celebrations:
“Launching this new route is more than just a flight connection; it is a bridge between two nations. We are excited to open new opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between Brunei and India. This route connects Bruneians and our international guests to the vibrant city of Chennai and the many experiences it has to offer, and it enhances travel options for those from India wishing to explore the peaceful beauty of Brunei Darussalam.”
This new route exemplifies our support for Brunei’s Wawasan 2035 vision to create a dynamic and globally connected economy. We are delighted to be part of this journey, promoting Brunei as a hidden gem for Indian travellers who wish to experience tranquillity, natural beauty, and a unique cultural heritage.
What Passengers Can Expect
Travelers on this new route will experience RB’s signature world-class service. Known for its warm hospitality and award-winning cabin crew, Royal Brunei Airlines offers an exceptional in-flight experience that combines comfort, innovation, and Bruneian charm. The Airbus A320neo ensures a smooth and efficient journey, while the onboard amenities cater to both relaxation and productivity, catering to the diverse needs of modern travellers.
Enhancing Regional Connectivity and Beyond
This direct flight signifies a stronger commitment from Royal Brunei Airlines to make travel more accessible, connecting travellers not only to Brunei but to destinations across Asia and the Pacific. The codeshare agreement with Air India plays a pivotal role, making it easier for passengers to navigate other major routes within RB’s expansive network.
This connectivity aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for ASEAN-India relations and the 2025 ASEAN-India Tourism Year, bringing the nations closer culturally and economically. As India and Brunei celebrate four decades of diplomatic relations, the new route symbolizes a promising future, fueled by a mutual commitment to growth, understanding, and collaboration.
Conclusion
The launch of Royal Brunei Airlines’ new direct flight between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai represents a monumental step in strengthening the ties between Brunei Darussalam and India. From its cultural celebrations to strategic partnerships and investment opportunities, the launch events embodied the spirit of collaboration and friendship between these two nations. With three weekly flights, enhanced connectivity through a codeshare agreement with Air India, and the promise of comfort and efficiency on RB’s Airbus A320neo, this new route is set to be a gateway for business and leisure alike.
For Brunei, this route is a strategic addition to its global network, highlighting the nation as a hidden gem for Indian travellers while boosting trade and investment. As the airline and both nations look forward to a future of shared prosperity and cultural exchange, Royal Brunei Airlines stands as a catalyst for a more connected and vibrant Asia.
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