State public works, infrastructure, public amenities and transport committee chairman Hameed Mytheen Kunju Basheer said a lack of interest towards air transport service in the state has led to airlines temporarily stopping their operations at LTAM, Bernama reported.

“I have had meetings with six airlines which operated at LTAM, including AirAsia. However, until now, they have yet to show positive indications due to low passenger volume on normal days and high operating costs, which caused them to stop their flights,” he was quoted as saying.

“So we (state government) will try to offer incentives based on an expected increase in tourist arrivals in the state in conjunction with Visit Melaka Year 2024.”

Hameed was speaking to Bernama after appearing as a guest on RTM’s “Dialog 1.30” programme on MELAKAfm.

He said the state government was also hopeful that the upcoming Melaka International Air Carnival, which will be held at LTAM from Sept 29 to Oct 1, will help revive the airport.

“So far, several international airlines from Australia, Russia, Thailand and Singapore have confirmed their participation, alongside local agencies such as the military, police and fire department,” Hameed added.

The media had previously reported that tourism industry players in Melaka were disappointed when LTAM stopped operating commercial flights last month.

The last domestic flight it operated was to Penang in June, while its last international flight was to Pekan Baru, Indonesia, on Aug 16.