AirAsia to suspend Ipoh-S’pore route; Perak govt says it wasn’t informed in advance
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
A notice on the AirAsia website says about 17 routes, including the Ipoh-Singapore one, will be suspended.
ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI
Follow topic:
IPOH - The Perak state government was not consulted or informed before AirAsia’s announcement on the termination of the Ipoh-Singapore route, Perak state assemblyman Loh Sze Yee said.
The Perak tourism, industry, investment, and corridor development committee chairman said data shows the route has consistently seen good demand.
He noted that the termination of the Ipoh-Singapore route is just one of several routes affected by the company’s decision.
“There are concerns that this could negatively impact tourism, investment and industry in Ipoh and Perak overall,” Mr Loh said in a statement on March 12.
“This termination contradicts the government’s efforts to boost air transportation in the state.
“The state government has always supported and cooperated in facilitating the smooth operation of both domestic and international flights.”
A notice on the AirAsia website states that about 17 routes, including the Ipoh-Singapore one, will be suspended.
It said the low-cost carrier would be suspending the services to further review and align its operations.
Mr Loh said upgrading works at Ipoh’s Sultan Azlan Shah Airport are part of initiatives taken by the state and federal governments to improve and enhance facilities to optimise flight services.
He said the upgrade is expected to be officiated by the Prime Minister and Transport Minister in the near future.
“I hope that AirAsia will consider resuming operations of the route,” he said.
“I also hope that this is only a temporary measure as part of the company’s strategy realignment for new destinations.”
THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
