Riad Asmat
KUCHING: AirAsia is the only airline that is offering a direct international flight to Miri because the low-cost carrier believes in the city’s potential in tourism and trade.
In stating this, AirAsia Malaysia chief executive officer Riad Asmat says the company hopes to fly more visitors to Miri in the coming years.
“This will not only create more job opportunities for its people (Mirians), but will further boost the state’s economy as well,” he said in a statement released in connection with AirAsia winning the Mayor’s Special Award at the Miri City Mayor Awards 2019, in Miri last weekend.
Held for the second year, the awards event meant to recognise individuals and organisations that had made significant contributions to the development of Miri.
“As a passionate proponent of shared prosperity, we strive to provide opportunities for Malaysians to fly, by offering low fares and advocating for fair airport charges. We are humbled to be recognised for our contributions in elevating Miri’s economic and social landscape,” said Riad.
AirAsia connects Miri to Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu and Johor Bahru, as well as to Singapore, with 101 flights inter-connecting with Miri every week.
As a result of the increased connectivity provided by AirAsia, passenger traffic at Miri Airport has tripled over the last 20 years – from 0.79 million in 1998, to 2.35 million in 2018.
Last year, 61 per cent of total passenger traffic at Miri Airport travelled on board AirAsia flights.
Also last year, AirAsia carried some 1.3 million Malaysians to and from Miri, and about 250,000 visitors from other countries.
The number of Bruneians crossing into Miri has also increased, as they take advantage of AirAsia’s vast connectivity and frequent flights via Miri.