AirAsia Suspends Ipoh-Singapore Route: Perak Government Takes Immediate Action
AirAsia Suspends Ipoh-Singapore Route: Perak Government Takes Immediate Action
The Perak State Government is set to hold in-depth discussions with AirAsia regarding the suspension of the Ipoh-Singapore flight route, scheduled to begin on April 23. This step is being taken to understand the root cause behind the decision and to find the best possible solution.
According to Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin, Perak's Executive Councillor for Infrastructure, Energy, Water, and Public Transportation, the state government will work closely with AirAsia to examine the factors leading to the discontinuation of the route. He emphasized that the state government is committed to ensuring the smooth operation of air transport services in Ipoh and throughout Perak.
Previously, Perak's Executive Councillor for Tourism, Industry, Investment, and Corridor Development, Loh Sze Yee, expressed the state government's concern over not being informed in advance about AirAsia's decision. He stressed that the termination of the route contradicts the state government's efforts to advance the tourism and air transport sectors in Perak.
“The Ipoh-Singapore route has shown impressive performance with passenger capacity consistently full since it began operating at Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (LTSAS). This proves that the demand for this route is high,” explained Sze Yee.
He also urged AirAsia to provide a detailed explanation regarding the reasons for the route's termination. Sze Yee added that the state government is prepared to provide the necessary support to ensure the route can be continued, given its significant impact on the state's economy, particularly in the tourism, investment, and industrial sectors.
“We will discuss with AirAsia to find a solution. So far, AirAsia only offers flights from Ipoh to Senai. However, if there is an opportunity to continue the route to Singapore, we are ready to help,” he said.
Sze Yee also emphasized that the termination of this route could affect the image of Ipoh and Perak as a competitive tourism and investment destination. He hopes that AirAsia will reconsider the decision for the mutual benefit of all parties.
These discussions were announced after Sze Yee officiated the 'Drive Carefully, Safe for Aidilfitri' program at AEON Big Falim, Ipoh. The program aims to increase road safety awareness among users during the festive season.
Interesting Facts:
- The Ipoh-Singapore flight route has been operating for several years and has become a top choice for tourists and business travelers.
- Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (LTSAS) is the main air transport hub in Perak, contributing to the state's economic growth.
- AirAsia is one of the most popular low-cost airlines in Malaysia, with a flight network covering both domestic and international destinations.
With the state government's proactive measures, it is hoped that this issue can be resolved immediately to ensure that air transport facilities in Perak continue to grow and benefit the people and investors.