JOHOR BARU: Five flights at Senai International Airport near here were affected by poor visibility due to thick haze on Thursday (Oct 8) morning, says Anthony Loke.
The Transport Minister, whose flight was also affected by the haze, said several aircraft could not land at the airport over safety concerns, forcing diversions elsewhere.
"Aircraft were unable to land due to safety requirements because of the poor visibility.
"As a result, several flights had to be diverted to Kuala Lumpur, while I understand that one was diverted to Changi Airport in Singapore.
"In total, five flights were affected, with some unable to land while others experienced departure delays," he told a press conference after launching the Port of Tanjung Pelepas' (PTP) electrical prime movers (e-PMs) fleet.
Loke said his flight from Kuala Lumpur to Johor, scheduled to depart at 7.15am, was delayed until 9am because of the haze.
"After we boarded at 6.45am, the pilot informed us air traffic control advised that aircraft could not land at Senai Airport.
"Since we would not be able to land even if we took off, it was better for us to wait at the airport," he said, adding that they waited for almost an hour and 45 minutes.
He said many passengers were still waiting for their flights when he arrived at Senai International Airport.
"I believe the situation can be resolved within two to three hours," he added.
