MELAKA, Sept 8 ― No positive indications from domestic and international airlines as well as a lack of interest towards air transport services in the state are among the factors that led airline companies to temporarily stop their operations at the Melaka International Airport (LTAM).
State Public Works, Infrastructure, Public Amenities and Transport Committee chairman Datuk Hameed Mytheen Kunju Basheer said due to these factors, the state government is ready to offer incentives to any commercial airline that wants to operate at LTAM.
“I have had meetings with six airlines including AirAsia which operated at LTAM but until now, they have yet to show positive indications due to low passenger volume on normal days and high operating costs, which caused them to stop their flights.
“So we (state government) will try to offer incentives based on an expected increase in tourist arrivals in the state in conjunction with the Visit Melaka Year 2024,” he said at a press conference after appearing as a guest on RTM's programme 'Dialog 1.30’ on MELAKAfm' here.
He also said among the other efforts being undertaken by the state government to revive LTAM will be the organisation of the Melaka International Air Carnival (KUAM) from September 29 to October 1.
“So far, several international airlines from Australia, Russia, Thailand and Singapore have confirmed their participation alongside local agencies such as the military, police and fire department,” he added.
The media had previously reported the disappointment of the public, especially tourism industry players in Melaka when LTAM stopped operating commercial airlines last month, with the last flight to Penang in June and to Pekan Baru, Indonesia, on August 16. ― Bernama
