SEPANG – Following the successful implementation of the Vehicle Access Management System (VAMS) at KL International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 (T1) last year, a trial of the same system is currently underway at Terminal 2 (T2). The trial, which runs until 30 March 2026, covers both departure and arrival kerbsides and introduces timed entry and exit through automated barrier gates to better manage traffic flow. After the trial period concludes, applicable charges will be implemented for vehicles that exceed the permitted kerbside time.

Managing Director, Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani said, “The second phase of VAMS rollout at T2 reflects our continued focus on elevating service excellence at KLIA. By improving kerbside traffic flow and ensuring better vehicle turnover, the system supports a smoother and safer experience for passengers and those sending them off or picking them up, particularly as travel demand continues to grow..”

VAMS at KLIA provides a 10-minute grace period for vehicles dropping off or picking up passengers. During the trial period at Terminal 2, no penalties will be imposed, as the focus is on monitoring traffic patterns and driver behaviour ahead of full implementation. T2 records an average of approximately 16,000 vehicle movements daily at its kerbsides, and the trial will help determine optimal operational adjustments before the system is fully enforced.

Introduced at KLIA T1 last year, the system recorded a significant reduction in kerbside congestion. Less than 1% of vehicles overstayed beyond the allowable period, equivalent to approximately 194 out of 43,000 vehicles daily. The improvement has helped maintain smoother traffic circulation at the terminal kerbside while supporting safer traffic operations. The extension of VAMS to T2 is expected to deliver similar benefits by improving vehicle turnover, shortening waiting times and enhancing overall kerbside safety, while reinforcing KLIA's Airports’ commitment to delivering a more efficient and service-focused passenger experience at the airport.

SEPANG – After nearly a decade, Lufthansa German Airlines will resume direct services to KL International Airport (KLIA), reconnecting Kuala Lumpur with Frankfurt. Beginning end-October this year, the airline will operate five weekly flights using the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, offering 287 seats across premium and economy cabins. The announcement was made at the ITB Berlin 2026, the world’s leading tourism trade fair.

The new service strengthens direct links between Malaysia and Europe while reinforcing KLIA’s role as a preferred regional hub. KLIA currently serves 71 airlines connecting passengers to 143 destinations worldwide, and Lufthansa’s addition further expands travel options for both leisure and business travellers. The service also increases the Star Alliance presence at KLIA to ten member airlines, enhancing alliance connectivity and transfer opportunities.

Malaysia Airports Managing Director, Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani said the airline’s return reflects the airport operator’s continued efforts to expand global connectivity through strategic airline partnerships, “Lufthansa’s return to KLIA reflects the continued strengthening of our connectivity and the growing demand for direct links between Malaysia and Europe. Expanding airline partnerships remains central to our efforts to grow KLIA’s global network and support our ambition to position Malaysia as the most connected country in the Asia Pacific. As Visit Malaysia 2026 gathers momentum, enhanced connectivity will play an important role in attracting visitors, facilitating business travel and strengthening Malaysia’s role as a regional gateway.”

Through its Frankfurt hub, Lufthansa offers onward connections to major European destinations including Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Italy and Eastern Europe. The service will also provide additional belly-hold cargo capacity, supporting Malaysian exports and facilitating stronger trade flows between Malaysia and Europe.

SEPANG – Passengers travelling to, from, or transiting through parts of the Middle East are advised to check their latest flight status directly with their respective airlines before proceeding to the airport.

Airspace restrictions in certain parts of the region may result in delays, rerouting or cancellations based on airline safety assessments. Even where services continue to operate, schedules and routing may be revised at short notice. Passengers are advised to verify their flight status directly with their airline before proceeding to the airport.

Passengers intending to travel to affected Middle East destinations should note that disruptions are not limited to direct services from KL International Airport (KLIA). Even if travelling via alternative transit points outside the region, onward services into affected destinations may be suspended or restricted. Travellers are therefore advised to verify the status of their entire journey, including connecting sectors, before making travel arrangements.

The airport community including Malaysia Airports as the operator, airlines, ground handlers, regulators and relevant airport stakeholders are working in close collaboration to monitor developments. Airport teams are on standby to provide guidance and coordinate with airlines on necessary arrangements, and to provide assistance to affected passengers at the terminals.

Passengers are encouraged to ensure their contact details are updated with their airline and to monitor official airline and airport channels for timely updates.

For information on passenger rights, travellers may refer to the Malaysian Aviation Consumer Protection Code under the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM).

Official travel advisories issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia (Wisma Putra) should also be consulted prior to travel.

Safety remains the highest priority. Passengers are advised to plan ahead and stay informed.

LANGKAWI – Langkawi International Airport (LGK) is once again recognised as the Best Airport in Asia Pacific (2–5 Million Passengers) at the 2025 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards by Airports Council International (ACI), marking its fifth consecutive win in the same category.

The ASQ Awards are regarded as the world’s leading airport customer experience benchmark, based entirely on real-time passenger feedback. Recognition is grounded in scientifically designed surveys capturing travellers’ experiences across key touchpoints including efficiency, cleanliness, comfort and overall service quality.

LGK’s sustained achievement reflects the airport operator’s’ disciplined focus on service excellence, operational consistency and continuous improvement at one of Malaysia’s premier leisure gateways. The airport’s consistent top ranking demonstrates that its passenger experience standards are not only maintained, but continually enhanced year after year.

Managing Director of Malaysia Airports, Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani, said the milestone holds special significance as Malaysia advances into Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

“This fifth consecutive recognition is a powerful endorsement from passengers themselves. It affirms the dedication of our airport community in Langkawi and reflects our commitment to delivering seamless, welcoming journeys at one of Malaysia’s most iconic island destinations. As VM2026 gains momentum, service excellence at key tourism gateways such as LGK will be critical in shaping first and lasting impressions of our country.”

He added that Langkawi plays a strategic role in supporting Malaysia’s aspiration to become the most connected country in the Asia Pacific region, particularly as international demand for resort and nature-based travel continues to strengthen.

In 2025, LGK handled 2.9 million passenger movements comprising 2.6 million domestic and 300,000 international, supported by expanding connectivity and steady growth in international arrivals. The airport currently serves multiple domestic and regional routes, reinforcing its position as a vital tourism gateway to the UNESCO Global Geopark.

Dato’ Mohd Izani further noted that Malaysia Airports will continue investing in passenger comfort, digital enhancements and collaborative initiatives with airlines, concessionaires and tourism stakeholders to elevate the overall travel experience.

With five consecutive ASQ wins, Langkawi International Airport stands as a consistent benchmark for service excellence in the Asia Pacific region, reinforcing Malaysia’s tourism appeal and strengthening the nation’s readiness to welcome the world for Visit Malaysia 2026.