IPOH AIRPORT UNVEILS MAJOR UPGRADES

IPOH – Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (LTSAS) in Ipoh has officially completed its optimisation project, a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing the airport’s functionality, capacity, and overall comfort as part of Malaysia Airports’ broader commitment to upgrading national aviation infrastructure in line with the country’s long-term transport and development goals. The upgraded facilities were launched in the presence of YAB Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, marking a significant milestone for both the airport and the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia.

At the heart of the transformation is a newly redesigned terminal layout that not only enhances the passenger experience but also increases the airport’s annual capacity to 700,000 passengers, 40% more from its previous limit of 500,000. This upgrade reflects Malaysia Airports’ forward-looking strategy as a progressive operator, one that prioritises optimising existing infrastructure, leveraging technology to streamline operations, and raising service standards as essential foundations before embarking on large-scale expansions.

According to Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani, Managing Director of Malaysia Airports, “As the operator of the national airport network, Malaysia Airports is committed to ensuring that all airports under our stewardship, including domestic gateways like LTSAS receive equal attention to remain relevant and competitive. This approach aligns with the Madani Government’s emphasis on equitable development across regions. We fully support the nation’s aspiration to become a leading regional aviation hub by ensuring strong connectivity between primary and secondary airports. In line with this goal, we strive to deliver balanced air access across the country, a responsibility that drives our efforts to promote inclusive mobility and sustainable economic growth nationwide.”

One of the key enhancements at LTSAS is the expanded terminal space, which has increased by over 10%, from 2,927 square metres to 3,257 square metres. This upgrade has effectively doubled the airport’s peak-hour passenger handling capacity from 240 to 510 passengers per hour. Supporting this increase, every holding lounge has been significantly enlarged from 71 square metres to 270 square metres, with new seating installed to accommodate up to 80% of peak-hour demand. The result is a more spacious, comfortable environment that can welcome three times more passengers during the busiest travel periods.

Immigration facilities have also been upgraded to enhance efficiency and provide a more seamless experience for travellers, with reduced wait times. On the departure side, immigration counters have been increased from two to four, with infrastructure in place to support the addition of two autogates in the near future. For arriving passengers, the number of counters has been upgraded from four to six, also with provisions for two future autogates.

In addition, passenger amenities have been significantly improved with the upgraded washrooms, accessible toilets for persons with disabilities (OKU), and baby changing facilities at the Domestic Departure Gates. The number of security screening machines has been increased from two to five to enhance processing efficiency and minimise queuing time.

For enhanced passenger safety, the airport has implemented advanced surveillance systems and expanded CCTV coverage across the terminal, underscoring its dedication to security and operational excellence. The Flight Information Display System (FIDS) has also been upgraded, doubling the number of units from five to ten. These are now strategically installed at various key locations including the domestic and international boarding lounges. Provisions have also been made for future enhancements to the Self-Service Bag Drop (SBD) system, reflecting Malaysia Airports’ innovation-driven approach to automation and improved passenger flow.

To streamline ground transport, an integrated car rental and taxi counter has been introduced at the Arrival Hall. Meanwhile, refreshed food and beverage outlets offer a more welcoming space for passengers to relax and dine before or after their flights.

LTSAS presently handles daily flight services by AirAsia to Johor Bahru and by Scoot to Singapore.