MELAKA: The goal of transforming the Melaka International Airport at Batu Berendam (LTAM) into a preferred aerospace and business aviation hub will bring back international flights, according to Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh (pic).
The Melaka Chief Minister disclosed that discussions have commenced with Indonesian carriers to enhance connectivity between LTAM and cities in Indonesia.
“The state government is currently engaging in talks with seven airlines to operate commercial flights at LTAM,” revealed Ab Rauf while addressing the media after launching a Mustafa Jewellery outlet at a local shopping mall.
The announcement follows a recent report by The Star, which highlighted the discontinuation of operations by local airlines at LTAM due to a lack of passengers and inadequate aircraft.
In his statement to reporters, Ab Rauf emphasized that the closure of these local carriers will not impact LTAM’s suitability as an aviation hub. He further mentioned that next month the state government will hold discussions with an Italian helicopter manufacturing conglomerate to explore the possibility of transforming LTAM into a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) center.
Ab Rauf clarified that the decision by two airlines to terminate operations at LTAM was solely driven by commercial considerations.
“These airlines’ decisions were independent of any action taken by the state government,” he clarified.
Ab Rauf cited the airlines’ explanations that the lack of passengers and inadequate aircraft were the primary reasons for their withdrawal from LTAM.
“They have chosen to utilize their aircraft for more profitable routes,” he added.
On Tuesday, The Star reported that there are no longer commercial flights available at LTAM, which local tourism players regarded as an uncommon occurrence.
An inspection at the airport confirmed that check-in desks, baggage carousels, and other counters have been vacant since last month, with all flights, including those to Pekan Baru, Indonesia, and Penang, no longer operating.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
