George Town: The expansion and upgrading works of Penang International Airport (LTAPP) are progressing steadily, with significant advancements across various work packages, said state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the project comprises three key Work Packages (WP), each designed to enhance the airport’s infrastructure and operational capacity. These include enabling works, airside facility improvements, and the construction of a new terminal building. Zairil stated, “Work Package One (WP1) was awarded to Gagasan Maya Sdn Bhd in September 2024, with a total contract value of RM107.9 million. As of Feb 15, WP1 has achieved 31 per cent physical progress and is on track for completion by November 2025.”
WP1 encompasses critical enabling, upgrading, and construction works, including the Ancillary Building, Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower, Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) office, and AVSEC Control Post. Zairil highlighted that this project would introduce a Remote Digital Virtual Tower (RDVT), making LTAPP the first airport in Southeast Asia to implement this advanced technology.
Physical construction for Work Package Two (WP2) is set to begin by mid-April, with the package awarded to Acre Works Sdn Bhd in December 2024. WP2, valued at RM254.6 million, focuses on upgrading the airport apron, taxiway, airside drainage, utilities diversion, and other related infrastructure. The tender for Work Package Three (WP3), which includes constructing a new terminal and renovating the existing terminal, is expected to be called in April 2025.
Zairil emphasized that the new terminal is expected to be operational by 2027, with full project completion targeted for 2028. He stated, “This expansion is a crucial step in accommodating the increasing passenger traffic at LTAPP while improving overall airport facilities. It will reinforce Penang’s position as a key regional aviation hub and support our state’s economic growth and connectivity.”
In February 2024, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced the government’s approval of the expansion project, also highlighted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the Budget 2025 announcement on Oct 18. Alongside the LTAPP expansion, Anwar announced projects including the Juru and Sungai Dua Elevated Expressway, the Penang Light Rail Transit, and the Batu Kawan Industrial Park 3 in Penang.