AirAsia agrees to move to KLIA2 by May 9

Despite the harsh criticism over safety and other issues at the Kuala Lumpur International Airports 2 (KLIA2), budget airliner AirAsia has finally agreed to move its operations to the new terminal by May 9.

In a statement, AirAsia Bhd Executive Chairman Datuk Kamarudin Meranun said they have decided to go ahead with the operations at the new terminal despite several outstanding commercial issues.

He said AirAsia has made the necessary preparations to move into KLIA2, in line with the Operational Readiness and Transfer (ORAT) specifications, such as airside and operations trials.

"With Malaysia Airport Holding Bhd (MAHB)’s assistance and support, we would be able to comply with the ORAT requirements to facilitate our move," he said in the statement.

AirAsia, Asia's biggest low-cost carrier, is expected to utilise 80 percent of the new low-cost airport located in Sepang.

AirAsia and the MAHB locked horns recently over safety, security and functionality issues of the new terminal which cost RM4 billion.

MAHB said it has complied with almost everything requested by AirAsia for it to operate from KLIA2 except its request for a spa and a museum.

Responding to that, AirAsia Group chief executive officer Tan Sri Tony Fernandes said he did not know anything about the spa.

"I have seen many funny stories but this takes the cake. A museum and a spa. Aware of the museum. It is to foster children's interest in the world of aviation. Spa, not aware," he said.

He stressed that the airlines just wanted a safe, cheap and on time low cost carrier terminal.