AirAsia requests PM to step in and resolve issues with MAHB

AirAsia has requested for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to step in and resolve the issue of AirAsia’s stand in remaining at the LCC Terminal after May 9, instead of moving to KLIA2.

AirAsia Chief Executive Officer, Aireen Omar said his intervention was crucial in resolving this ‘national issue’.

“As a major contributor to Malaysia’s economy, AirAsia must be given a voice as we are the main user of KLIA2. AirAsia looks forward to resolve this issue as soon as possible,” stated Aireen in a statement to the media on Wednesday.

AirAsia will account for more than 80 percent of KLIA2’s air traffir and according to Aireen, AirAsia would need for it (KLIA2) to be fully functional and operationally for the long term.

Aireen’s statement was following a statement given by Deputy Transport Minister, Datuk Abdul Aziz Kaprawi who refused to comment on AirAsia refusal to move from LCCT although it (AirAsia) will cease its operation there (LCCT) on May 9.

AirAsia is expected to be called up by the Parlimentary committee to provide their opinion on the new airport.

"I cannot comment first. We will see on that day," said Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Abdul Aziz Kaprawi as reported by Bernama.

LCCT will cease its operation on May 9 when all government agencies related such as immigration and customs are expected to move to the new airport, KLIA2.

Malaysia Airports Holding Berhad (MAHB) Senior General Manager, Datuk Azmi Murad said that KLIA2 will begin operation as scheduled.

Asked if AirAsia had time to move all its operation to KLIA2, he said: “We will see.”

Aireen in a statement on Tuesday stressed that AirAsia will not move to KLIA2 until the issues brought up by AirAsia were solved by MAHB. Among the issues include the runway condition which is said to be looked into, the short moving period which is less than two months and AirAsia’s contract which MAHB which needs to be settled before moving to KLIA2.

Aireen added that the explanation was needed as the company does not want the public to have a negative thought of AirAsia.

She said the matters brought up by AirAsia especially on KLIA2s ability and safety is vital for its staff and passengers.

She also said that they are “more than willing” to move to KLIA2 however it should be done in the right manner.

“We are trying our level best to resolve all pending and pressing issues (as we have done for the past three years) with Malaysia Airports Holding Berhad (MAHB) so that we can proceed to move to our new home accordingly,” said Aireen.