Penang: The expansion of the Penang International Airport is progressing according to schedule, with several key work packages recording encouraging progress and the overall project expected to be completed in 2028.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari stated that Work Package One (WP01), comprising the construction of support buildings, utility relocation, infrastructure works, and the Remote Digital Virtual Tower (RDVT), had achieved 100 percent completion. The Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) for the entire package was obtained on July 1.

Work Package Two (WP02), which involves airside works such as apron expansion, construction of taxilanes, drainage systems, and airport lighting, has reached about 70 percent completion. For Work Package Three (WP03), which covers the expansion of the main terminal building, the design stage has been completed while the procurement phase commenced on June 25, Zairil explained in a statement after visiting the project site.

The Penang International Airport expansion is among the Federal Government's strategic initiatives to increase the airport's annual passenger handling capacity from 6.5 million to 12 million. This enhanced capacity is crucial to accommodate growing passenger traffic, strengthen domestic and international air connectivity, and support the state's economic development.

The project is also expected to catalyse growth in the tourism, trade, investment, and logistics sectors, further reinforcing Penang's position as a major economic hub in the Northern Region. The state government will continue working closely with the Federal Government, the airport operator, and all relevant agencies to ensure the smooth implementation of the project, while minimizing disruption to airport operations and ensuring the comfort of passengers throughout the construction period, Zairil added.