SHAH ALAM, Aug 22 — Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB), better known as Subang Airport, continues to attract interest from carriers despite recent withdrawals by major airlines, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said, reports The Star.
“There are airlines moving out, but there are also airlines making enquiries to establish operations at SZB, including those seeking to expand their jet services,” he told the English daily.
Loke’s remarks came after AirAsia and, more recently, Firefly, announced the cessation of their jet operations from the airport.
AirAsia has shifted back to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), while Firefly officially ended its SZB services on August 19.
The minister also dismissed speculation that the Subang Airport Regeneration Plan (SARP) has been shelved.
“The way forward for SARP will depend on how Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) spearheads the project following its privatisation.
“We are giving MAHB the space to prioritise KLIA after the privatisation exercise. In the meantime, the business aviation and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) plans for Subang Airport will continue to move ahead,” he said.
Loke expressed confidence in SZB’s long-term prospects and its role as a key aviation hub.
“I still have full confidence in its potential as a premium airport and private jet hub,” he said.
Batik Air has been among the carriers expanding operations at SZB. Last month, it launched direct services to Bangkok and Kuching, adding to its existing routes. The airline now operates five direct flights from Subang.
The RM3.7 billion SARP aims to transform SZB into a premier city airport by 2030.
