PUTRAJAYA, Sept 15 (Bernama) -- Direct AirAsia flights linking Kota Kinabalu with Bintulu and Sibu will resume from November, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
He said the move followed recent talks with the airline on restoring both routes to boost air connectivity between Sabah and Sarawak, especially for Bintulu and Sibu residents.
He said the Kota Kinabalu–Bintulu route will resume on Nov 1 with three flights weekly, while Kota Kinabalu–Sibu will start on Nov 2 with four flights weekly. Both routes will use Airbus A320 aircraft, with tickets already on sale since Sept 2.
"Many people depend on these direct flights for work, education, business, tourism, medical treatment and visiting family. Without direct flight services, passengers may have to transit at other airports, lengthening their journey and incurring extra costs," he said in a statement here today.
Tiong said stronger connectivity between Sabah and Sarawak was not only important for easing travel, but also supported economic activity, domestic tourism and closer people-to-people ties between the two states.
"The Kota Kinabalu–Bintulu service will provide better convenience for residents, workers and the business community, in line with Bintulu's continued growth as an industrial and economic hub. The Kota Kinabalu–Sibu route will also benefit residents of Sibu and central Sarawak as a whole," he added.
Tiong also reminded airlines to ensure their services remain stable and reliable, and to avoid frequent cancellations or last-minute schedule changes that could erode passenger confidence.
He urged AirAsia to keep fares affordable, as far as market conditions allow, so that the additional flight options genuinely benefit the people.
"We will continue to engage with airlines and the relevant authorities to improve Sabah–Sarawak air connectivity, offer passengers more travel options and ensure our flight services grow in step with the people's needs and the development of both states," he said.
-- BERNAMA