KLIA Poised To Support F1's Return To Malaysia -- MAHB

By Kisho Kumari Sucedaram

KUALA LUMPUR, July 30 (Bernama) -- The Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is well-positioned to accommodate the expected influx of Formula 1 (F1) teams, officials and spectators with the return of the championship to Malaysia in October, said Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB).

The airport operator views the announcement positively and said that it stands ready to welcome the teams traveling to Malaysia for the F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix (Bahrain GP). 

“KLIA is already geared to support the higher volume of international visitors anticipated during the Visit Malaysia period.

“These preparations put us in a good position to accommodate the additional activity associated with the event, while our airport facilities, including the Sama-Sama Hotel at KLIA, are also ready to support the needs of visitors,” it told Bernama today. 

Beyond the immediate benefits to travel and tourism, MAHB said the staging of the Bahrain GP in Malaysia is a valuable opportunity to showcase Malaysia's connectivity, hospitality and ability to support major international events.

“It also reflects the value of cross-country collaboration and mutual support at a time when global events continue to create uncertainty across the aviation and travel industries,” it said. 

Malaysia is set to host the Bahrain GP at the Sepang International Circuit on Oct 2-4, after the country was selected as a replacement host following the postponement of the Bahrain race due to the West Asia conflict.

Yesterday, the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) called on all relevant stakeholders, including airport operators, airlines, ground handlers and relevant government agencies, to work closely to ensure the smooth handling of the event.

In anticipation of an increase in scheduled, charter and business aviation flights during the F1 weekend, it said that the necessary resources, personnel and contingency arrangements must be in place to support higher passenger and flight volumes.

-- BERNAMA