Perth: Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) is focusing on expanding long-haul flights, particularly from European carriers, in a bid to enhance Malaysia’s global connectivity.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, senior general manager of strategy, Megat Ardian Wira Mohd Aminuddin, emphasized the potential opportunities that Routes World 2025 in Hong Kong will offer. This event will enable MAHB to engage with airlines from Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Megat Ardian mentioned the importance of one-on-one and strategic meetings with European carriers, highlighting a significant target of attracting more than 12 carriers to operate in Malaysia this year. Speaking at Routes Asia 2025 in Perth, Australia, he outlined a “hunting and farming strategy” aimed at attracting new airlines while strengthening relationships with existing ones. This involves collaborating on new routes, additional frequencies, and upgrading aircraft from narrow to wide bodies.
He also spoke about MAHB’s comprehensive incentive program designed to encourage airlines to add new routes and frequencies. The conclusion of Routes Asia 2025 saw positive outcomes for Malaysia as the country continues to enhance its air connectivity within the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. The event facilitated discussions on new routes, increased frequencies, and aircraft upgrades following strategic meetings with 18 targeted airlines.
Megat Ardian noted that while Routes Asia is smaller than World Routes, it provides a focused platform for meeting Asia-Pacific, Indian subcontinent, and ASEAN airlines. Discussions concentrated on existing and potential routes and increasing capacity, with 18 airlines showing positive interest in new connections and slot times.
Routes Asia 2025, a premier aviation event, brought together over 110 airlines and 160 airports from the Asia-Pacific route development community. Held from March 25-27, 2025, at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, it attracted more than 900 delegates, including key stakeholders from airports, airlines, and tourism authorities. The event facilitated over 3,000 face-to-face meetings, exchange of best practices, and exploration of new air service opportunities.
Perth Airport and Tourism Western Australia officially handed over hosting responsibilities to China West Airport Group for Routes Asia 2026, which will be held in Xi’an, China, in March 2026. The upcoming event will be hosted by China West Airport Group and Xi’an Xianyang International Airport at the Xi’an International Convention and Exhibition Centre.