Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) has granted traffic rights to 57 new destinations, boosting connectivity in the ASEAN region. This includes rights to 45 international and 12 domestic destinations.
Compared to the same quarter last year, the commission received 87.5% more air traffic rights (ATR) applications. Conversely, Q2 ATR applications decreased by 12% compared to the first quarter of this year but were 5% ahead of pre-pandemic Q2 2019. In another sign of increased activity and optimism, the 45 ATRs awarded for international traffic increased by 36% compared to 2019.
The most rights were awarded to AirAsia and its logistic arm Teleport with 16 ATRs for international and domestic routes. AirAsia X was granted rights for up to four weekly flights to Almaty in Kazakhstan while Teleport now has ATRs for cargo routes encompassing Hong Kong to Kuala Lumpur as well as to the east Malaysian destinations of Kota Kinabalu, Tawau and Kuching.
In July, Teleport received its first Airbus A321P2F, which will be followed by two more this year and another seven within 18 months.
Saripuddin Kasim, executive chairman, MAVCOM said: “The significant increase in ATR applications and approvals in Q2 2023, compared to the same period in 2022, bears testament to the industry's inherent strength and its capacity to adapt and thrive. As part of the Commission's continued efforts to ensure Malaysia's aviation industry remains dynamic and responsive to global travel trends, we have approved ATRs for various new destinations as well as to establish new hub connections. These decisive measures are specifically tailored to enhance connectivity, spur economic growth and catalyse the recovery of the aviation sector."
Besides AirAsia, Batik Air Malaysia also secured rights for daily flights to Tashkent in Kazakhstan and Okinawa (Japan) via Taipei (Taiwan).