Cheaper flights for students

Enjoy your flight: Loke (centre) and Thai ambassador Lada Phumas (second from right) giving out goodie bags to lucky passengers at the launch of MYAirline’s inaugural flight to Bangkok at KLIA Terminal 2. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: The Transport Ministry will introduce an initiative in August to ease the financial burden of students at public institutions of higher learning, especially from Sabah and Sarawak, who require air travel.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the initiative, which could benefit about 50,000 IPTA students, is currently in the process of integration with the airlines.

“We expect it to be launched in August, before this year’s National Day celebration,” he told Bernama after launching the MYAirline Students Programme and inaugural international flight to Bangkok yesterday.

Loke said the local aviation industry, including MYAirlines, has an important role, particularly for students who must cross the South China Sea as flights are their only travel option.

“Reliable and affordable flights are key to allowing our students to pursue the best education opportunities and strengthening the unity of our regions.

“I’m pleased to announce that MYAirlines will offer a 20% fare discount and a 15kg complimentary baggage allowance to students (aged 16-26) travelling on domestic flights under this programme.

“With the upcoming Transport Ministry initiative and MYAirline’s Students Programme, students can now expect more choices when travelling within the country. I hope this will also be a catalyst for other airlines to have similar programmes to help people,” he said.

On MYAirline’s inaugural flight to Thailand, Loke said this would help expand trade and tourism opportunities further and deepen the cultural exchange between Malaysia and Thailand.

Meanwhile, MYAirline chief executive officer Rayner Teo said the airline will operate at two airports in Bangkok, with operations at Suvarnabhumi Airport on June 28 and at Don Mueang International Airport on July 1.

“Starting today, MYAirline will introduce a route to Bangkok via the Don Mueang International Airport, allowing passengers to choose between Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi Airport.

“This marks the first time a homegrown carrier has offered such flexibility,” said the minister.