GEORGE TOWN – The long-awaited expansion of Penang International Airport (PIA) has begun, with three key work packages in progress, according to state Tourism and Creative Economy executive councilor Wong Hon Wai.
In a Facebook post, Wong announced that site preparation is underway, and a project team has been appointed to oversee the development. The expansion, which is expected to be completed by 2028, aims to significantly enhance the airport’s capacity.
The three work packages include ancillary building works, apron and airside facility upgrades, and major improvements to the main terminal building.
Wong also noted that coordination is ongoing with MRT Corp for the construction of a light rail transit (LRT) station near the main terminal, further boosting the airport’s connectivity.
In the meantime, the airport will undergo an optimisation process starting next month, with the installation of 10 e-gates each at the international departure and arrival halls. The process is expected to take four months.
“An additional 30 immigration staff will be deployed to man the counter at the end of November.
“The immigration department has also set up a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) help desk at the international arrival hall to assist the foreigners who need to fill in the MDAC,” said Wong in his posting made after meeting with Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad yesterday.
The PIA expansion project was approved by the Cabinet in February of this year. Once completed, the airport will be able to accommodate 12 million passengers annually, nearly doubling its current capacity of 6.5 million.
Penang International is set to become Malaysia’s second-largest airport by 2028. – October 16, 2024