In September 2023, jetsetting Malaccans were dismayed to find that commercial flights in and out of the Melaka International Airport (LTAM) were halted following the abrupt exit of two service providers. They cited their reasons being a lack of passengers and high cost of operations. Happily, the Melaka state assembly has been informed that commercial flight services are expected to resume in May in Batu Berendam.

As reported by The Star, State tourism, heritage, art and culture committee chairman Datuk Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman said a direct flight from China is expected to make its debut while the airport would cater for more regional shuttle air services.

He said, "The state government has taken all the necessary steps to 'resuscitate' LTAM by inviting airline operators to explore opportunities made available for them.” Abdul Razak added that in conjunction with Visit Melaka Year 2024, efforts had also been made by stakeholders in the state to maximise the utilisation of the airport.

Agreement issues

Back in September, it was reported that there was not a single agreement signed previously to tie down the airlines to provide services for a stipulated time frame at LTAM. This led to the sudden decision by service providers to stop inbound and outbound flights.

Then in October 2023, it was reported that seven airlines had no interest in operating commercial flights even though the state government had offered special incentives.

Malaccans, time to plan for your trips! No need to drive all the way to KLIA any longer, woohoo!

Image source: @shahrul.shahzi, bari abikar on Unsplash