SEPANG - As part of efforts to enhance passenger experience and to rejuvenate KL International Airport (KLIA), Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (Malaysia Airports) has embarked on the Aerotrain replacement programme. The entire asset replacement programme will take three years and is scheduled to complete by March 2025. During this transition period, its current Aerotrain service will run on a limited schedule augmented with round the clock bus services so that passengers can be assured of a seamless airport journey.

Chairman of Malaysia Airports, Dato' Seri DiRaja Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said, 'The current Aerotrain system has been in operation for the last 24 years since the opening of KLIA. We are not only replacing the trains but the entire track system so that our passengers will be able to experience a renewed modern aerotrain service when they pass through the airport. This will also effectively enhance KLIA's reputation as one of the world's best airports.'

In his briefing to members of the media, Managing Director of Malaysia Airports, Dato' Iskandar Mizal Mahmood said, 'As with any large-scale asset replacement programme, it will have to be done in phases. The first phase involving design works is until March 2023, where multiple stakeholder engagements are conducted to ensure that the new Aerotrain system meets both local and international transport and safety standards. The second phase between March 2023 and March 2025 will be the construction of the new Aerotrain. Within these three years transition period, the current Aerotrain will run on a limited schedule to enable a more robust maintenance regime due to its ageing condition and to facilitate the replacement programme. We seek the public's understanding and patience during this time as there will be some inconvenience to passengers. To minimise inconveniences to passengers, we have also enhanced our round-the-clock bus services to better facilitate passenger movements,' he added.

Passengers can look forward to a more robust Aerotrain system using the latest technology and offering greater comfort level. It will also feature the design flexibility to cater to future growth and new terminal connections.

Meanwhile, KLIA is also upgrading its bus services to augment the limited Aerotrain operation. The airport will replace its current fleet with 6 new airport buses whereby the first two are arriving in November this year. The other 4 buses will arrive by February 2023. These new buses will be able to cater up to 110 passengers per bus, double the current capacity. They are also innovatively designed with robust and durable structure. For example, its rear wheel steering has a reduced turning radius making the journey safer and more comfortable for passengers. It is also equipped with a hydraulic kneeling system that aligns with the pavement curb thus making it more convenient for passengers with limited mobility. Additionally, the buses will also be furnished with WiFi connectivity and digital displays for infotainment, as well as tracking and surveillance system, and CCTV cameras for improved safety and security. These airport buses will be at par, if not better, than the buses that are being used at other major international airports globally.At present, there will only be one Aerotrain in operation at any given time with a limited schedule of 4 times daily as follows:

0600hrs - 1000hrs,

1200hrs - 1530hrs,

1700hrs - 2330hrs,

0030hrs - 0330hrs.

Passengers are encouraged to use the alternative bus service which is available 24/7 for greater convenience.

(C) 2022 Electronic News Publishing, source ENP Newswire