Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirms increased domestic flights for Aidilfitri, with no cancellations on local routes despite global aviation pressures.

PUTRAJAYA: Domestic flight capacity has been increased to accommodate the surge in travel demand ahead of Aidilfitri. Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed that no domestic flights have been cancelled by local airlines so far.

“We have increased flights for the Hari Raya period, and no domestic flights have been cancelled,” he said at a press conference. He clarified that any cancellations involve only routes to areas considered to be at risk.

Loke added that the government is engaging with local airlines to identify approaches to reduce operating costs. The Transport Ministry will hold a meeting with airlines and aviation industry players to discuss possible cost mitigation measures.

The ministry will also present a proposal to the National Economic Action Council to examine potential forms of government assistance. “Later this evening, we will meet with MTEN and present our proposal to explore how we can reduce operational costs for flights,” Loke said.

He noted that the conflict in West Asia has affected the global aviation sector, including a decline in passenger numbers from the region. Over the past two weeks, there has been a slight drop in passengers from West Asia due to the ongoing conflict.

However, he added that the situation has also created opportunities for local airlines. Malaysia Airlines has seen higher demand for flights to London and Paris as passengers now have more limited travel options through hubs in West Asia.

 The Sun Malaysia