Thursday, November 11, 2010

More MAS international flights from Kuching

SARAWAKIANS can expect Malaysia Airlines (MAS) to operate more international routes to and from Kuching next year.

Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan yesterday said the destinations include Tokyo and Osaka in Japan, Seoul in South Korea and Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei.

The Tourism and Heritage Minister also said MAS would commence its flight from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, Osaka’s Kansai Airport and Seoul’s Incheon Airport into Kuching via Kota Kinabalu in Sabah from mid January next year.

AirAsia will operate Kuching-Bandar Seri Begawan in 2011. We are also advocating that MASwings be allowed to operate Kuching-Pontianak, Kuching-Bandar Seri Begawan and Mulu-Bandar Seri Begawan routes on a commercial basis,” said Dr Chan in his winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly yesterday.

Apart from that, Firefly would be flying into the capital city from January next year, he said.

Dr Chan pointed out that enhancing accessibility and connectivity was crucial in helping the state achieve its target of 4 million tourists next year.

Hence, the state government had entered into discussions with Malaysia Airport Holdings Bhd to provide incentives to foreign airlines in terms of free landing and discounts on airport charges, he revealed.

“The federal government has been supportive in liberalising the air services agreement with foreign countries and the opening up of Sarawak through reciprocal open sky policy. The state continues to engage airlines as part of its strategy to collaborate in destination promotion efforts and contributed marketing support funds as part of the joint promotion to bring more tourists,” he explained.

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