AirAsia to suspend Singapore to Miri and Sibu from Feb 2024

AirAsia has announced the suspension of its flights between Singapore and Miri, as well as Singapore and Sibu, effective from February 21, 2024.

Citing low load factors, substantial losses, and the global aircraft shortages, AirAsia aims to rationalize its fleet operations.

The decision has prompted the Sarawak Ministry of Transport (MoT) to engage with the airline, urging a reconsideration of the routes, even proposing reduced flight frequencies.

Urging AirAsia to reconsinder decision

In an email to the Sarawak Ministry of Transport (MoT) dated November 7, the airline outlined its reasons for this strategic move. The MoT has since communicated its concerns and urged AirAsia to reconsider, proposing the continuation of the routes with potentially reduced flight frequencies.

“Once the load is stabilised and improved in the future, Airasia may increase the flight frequency for the two routes.

Currently, Airasia Berhad is operating four times from Singapore to Miri and three times to Sibu weekly, with an average load capacity of 69 per cent and 67 per cent respectively,” said Sarawak Transport minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin in a statement today.

The ministry emphasizes its commitment to reaching affected passengers promptly, assuring that alternative fly-thru flights will be arranged for them, and details of the next steps will be communicated by the end of the week.

Scoot Airlines’ initiative

Following a courtesy call from Singapore Airlines and Scoot Airlines management on September 25, plans are underway to enhance Scoot’s flight frequencies to Kuching and Miri, with a tentative new route to Sibu in the second quarter of 2024, contingent on the arrival of new aircraft.

This development aligns with Sarawak’s focus on promoting tourism and economic activities, particularly in Miri and Sibu, renowned for their wildlife, rainforests, and harmonious social environment.

Scoot is currently flying daily from Singapore to Kuching and three times weekly to Miri since February 2022, and it would be timely for the airline to increase their operation to Miri and Sibu, since both destinations play an important role for business travellers and nature loving tourists.

The second quarter of 2024 could witness expanded flight options, contributing to the accessibility and appeal of Sarawak as a destination for business and nature enthusiasts alike. Miri would also receive additional flights from Firefly Sdn Bhd, which would operate two flights weekly between Miri and Kota Kinabalu, starting Nov 22.