Weathering turbulence: MAG will scale back flights to address recent operational setbacks, a move commended for prioritising safety by tourism players. — AZMAN GHANI/The Star
PETALING JAYA: A move to scale back flights by Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and Amal until year-end to address some recent operational setbacks was well received by hoteliers and tourism groups, although it may have an impact on both industries.
The groups, however, said there is an urgency to resolve the underlying issues to prevent long-term ramifications on the country’s tourism sector.
Malaysian Tourism Federation secretary-general Dr Sri Ganesh Michiel said although the move will cause inconvenience to travellers, the airlines should be commended for prioritising the airworthiness of their aircraft and ensuring passenger safety is not compromised.
He said the matter could be resolved if Malaysia Airlines resumes the flights it has struck off through airline alliances with other carriers.
“At least, this is not being done in the eleventh hour. It is thoughtful of the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) to make the announcement early and allow travellers ample time to plan.
“Malaysia Airlines has very high standards for aircraft upkeep. It is commendable to put safety above revenue.
“The government should also play a role in assisting Malaysia Airlines by finding alternative ways to ensure travellers are unaffected by the scale back,” said Sri Ganesh, who is also the president of the Malaysia Budget and Business Hotel Association.
Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents president Nigel Wong said although the situation may inconvenience affected passengers, it will not significantly affect tourism on the whole.
“We need to give time to MAG to balance its operations as it trims flights.
“For now, MAG should assist affected passengers in finding alternatives. There are many other airlines servicing routes into Malaysia, so there should be sufficient capacity to meet current needs.
“It is good to know that MAG is prioritising safety, which is very important,” he said.
Wong also said the carrier needed to overcome its shortcomings promptly to resume its operations to normal.
Melaka Tourism Association president Madeline Kuah said the scale back would affect travel agents who have pre-booked flights for outbound tours.
“Passengers who book flights also make hotel reservations, airport transfers and other pre-arrangements at the same time.
“With the cancellations, they will have to top up payments to get the next best flight to their destination. This will disrupt their travel plans,” she said.
Kuah said Malaysia Airlines should be more proactive by having an “out-of-the-box” plan, such as arranging for alternative flights for affected passengers.
Frequent traveller R. Nandan said the flight cancellations will cause setbacks for many, but the decision by Malaysia Airlines was wise to avoid further flight disruptions.
“I believe it will only marginally affect tourism, as people will not shelve their travel plans over this, but seek alternatives.
“However, they will be disgruntled as ticket fares elsewhere will rise as a result of these flight cancellations. I guess we can stomach it until year-end,” he said.
