SEPANG: The KL International Airport’s (KLIA) aerotrain service will run on a limited schedule but will be supplemented with round-the-clock bus services, according to Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd.
Its managing director Datuk Iskandar Mizal Mahmood said the aerotrain upgrading work through an asset replacement programme (ARP) was in the first phase and would be completed by March 2025.
Currently, only one aerotrain will operate at any given time, with a limited schedule of four times daily.
He said the upgraded aerotrain would be able to accommodate up to 5,400 passengers per hour.
“The first phase involving design work will be until March 2023, when multiple stakeholder engagements such as with the Transport Ministry will be conducted to ensure the new system meets local and international transport and safety standards,” he said yesterday.
In the interim, Iskandar said passengers could board nine airport buses from the main terminal building to the satellite building, which is able to ferry about 1,800 passengers per hour.
He said KLIA would replace its current fleet with six new airport buses, with the first two arriving in November, and the other four expected by next February.
Each of the new buses would be able to cater to 110 passengers, which is double the current capacity, he said.
“The new buses are innovatively designed with a robust and durable structure, equipped with a hydraulic kneeling system that aligns with the curb to make it more convenient for passengers.
“Additionally, the buses will also be furnished with WiFi and digital displays, as well as a tracking and surveillance system and CCTV cameras,” he said.
Iskandar said the new KLIA buses would be on par, if not better, than those being used at other major airports around the world.
He said work under the second phase from March 2023 to March 2025 would involve construction of the new aerotrain system.
MAHB chairman Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said the upgrading work would effectively enhance KLIA’s reputation as one of the world’s best airports.
“The current aerotrain system has been in operation for the last 24 years since KLIA opened.
“We are not only replacing the trains but the entire track system,” he added.
