Kong: Runway blackout in KKIA will be investigated

PUTRAJAYA: Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha said on Saturday that the blackout at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport runway will be thoroughly investigated.

He said that due to the blackout on Thursday, many flights were postponed and cancelled.

“I am extremely upset with the whole situation that has caused a lot of uneasiness and anger among passengers who have planned their long weekend to celebrate Hari Raya Haji with their families and loved ones,” he said in a press statement.

Kong said that stern action would be taken on the careless party, be they individuals, local authorities or the airport operator.

If there were elements of sabotage in the outcome of the investigation, a police report would be made and the case would then be handled by the police, he said.

“No one will be spared based on the findings of the investigation with regards to this occurrence,” he said.

Kong also urged the airport operator to ensure Emergency Response Plans were in place so that such incidents would not reoccur.

KKIA was closed Thursday night after the runway lights malfunctioned, forcing several incoming and outgoing flights to be cancelled or rescheduled and leaving many passengers stranded.

Related Stories: Semblance of order after night of chaos KK airport likely to be closed Friday night as well; RMAF flying in portable runway lights as temporary measure Faulty runway lights cause standstill at KKIA