Three’s a crowd as Perak plans new airport too

 

The Kulim airport will be the second major airport in the north, rivalling the Penang international airport but a third one in Ipoh will makes things crowded. (Facebook pic)

LENGGONG: After the Kedah government’s plan to build a new international airport in Kulim, Perak is now planning to build a new airport and also extend the runway at the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (LTSAS) to meet the demand from medical tourists and domestic investors.

If the plan comes true, there will be three major airports over a distance of less than 150km, with one each in Kulim, Penang and Ipoh.

According to Bernama, menteri besar Saarani Mohamad said Perak’s plans would depend on the government’s financial capability due to its high cost.

“The existing runway at the LTSAS in Ipoh cannot accommodate large aircraft. If we want to extend the airport runway, we have to pay high compensation because it is close to schools and housing areas,” he told a press conference after launching the Perak Mobile Store (KBNP) at the Arena Square Lawin today.

Saarani, who is also the Kota Tampan assemblyman, said the state government was aware that tourists and investors wanted direct flights to Ipoh.

Meanwhile, he said a total of 40 KBNP would be set up throughout the state with the aim of helping people affected by Covid-19 get dry and fresh goods at cheaper and economical prices. - FMT