Gateway@klia2 to boost Malaysia's standing as low-cost carrier hub

The opening of Gateway@klia2 in the new low-cost carrier terminal will be a boost in making Malaysia the leading hub for budget airlines and global aviation industry, says Acting Transport Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein.

"I am satisfied and impressed with the final preparations made to open the klia2, particularly in terms of Gateway@klia2 and public transport connectivity.

"I am confident that klia2 is safe and will be ready for business come this Friday," he said in a speech after officiating the opening of Express Rail Link station at the klia2 today.

Gateway@klia2 is managed by Segi Astana Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between WCT Holdings Bhd and Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd.

It has 350,000 square feet of net lettable space spanning over four levels and 6,000-bay multi-storey car park.

Built on the "airport in a mall" concept, it is able to house 110 outlets ranging from food and beverages to fashion.

The transport hub within Gateway@klia2 complex is also set to accommodate various modes of public transport that include trains, buses and taxis.

"The hub will be able to service up to 2,000 passengers at any time," Hishammuddin said.

Meanwhile, the minister said it was yet to decide on the passenger service charge (PSC) for the klia2.

"We will have to table the proposal and see the response on the new airport after its opening," he said.

He was asked to comment on the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which had expressed concern over the differences in PSC between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and klia2.

The services and facilities at the klia2 is comparable, if not better than KLIA, and therefore users of equivalent facilities at both terminals should pay similar PSC, the IATA has said.

It suggests both terminals to charge a PSC of RM44-RM45.