Sultan Azlan Shah Airport set for regional hub upgrade

The Perak government has unveiled plans to elevate Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (LTSAS) in Ipoh into a regional aviation hub, targeting Airbus 320 aircraft for three to five-hour long-haul flights.

Loh Sze Yee, Chairman of the State Committee on Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development, highlighted the proposal to Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB). The focus of the envisioned hub would be on direct flights between Asean member countries.

However, the final decision lies with the federal government. Despite constraints, discussions with industry players, including Thailand, have already begun.

Vision for LTSAS: A regional aviation hub

The strategic move to upgrade Sultan Azlan Shah Airport into a regional aviation hub stems from its optimal runway size catering to Airbus 320 aircraft. Loh expressed the state government’s vision for LTSAS during the opening of the Dinosaur Encounter@Silverlake Village Outlet (DESVO).

The proposed hub would primarily focus on direct flights connecting Asean member countries, presenting an opportunity for enhanced connectivity in the region.

He also acknowledged that the ultimate decision lies with the federal government, specifically Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB), to greenlight the implementation of the regional aviation hub.

Navigating challenges: Federal approval and collaboration

While the Perak government is keen on transforming LTSAS into a regional aviation hub, the hurdle lies in federal approval for flight operations.

Loh outlined that discussions with industry players, notably Thailand, have been exploratory, given that final approvals for flights, arrivals, and departures rest with the federal government. Despite the constraints, the state government is optimistic about the potential for collaboration with the private sector.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke has previously welcomed private sector involvement in upgrading less competitive airports through Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

This collaboration model is seen as a means to enhance existing airports and contribute to their overall development. Several private companies, including those expressing interest in LTSAS, are being considered for large investments in airport development.

The focus on LTSAS aligns with the broader goal of encouraging foreign tourist arrivals, especially in light of Visit Perak Year 2024. While alternative suggestions for a new airport in Seri Iskandar were considered, the attention is currently centred on upgrading LTSAS.