Among the seven categories of certification that will see huge jumps announced by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) are airports with single and double runways, most of which are owned and operated by Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB).
MAHB operates five international airports, 17 domestic and another 17 short take-off and landing aerodromes.
In a recent notice to all stakeholders sighted by FMT, CAAM head Norazman Mahmud said seven existing certification charges would see increases but that 128 would be maintained. However, 25 categories involving unmanned aircraft and drones will see new charges imposed.
Under the revised fee structure, annual aerodrome certification charges for airports with two runways will see a 50% increase to RM300,000 for three years from next January, RM390,000 from 2028 to 2030, and RM468,000 from 2031.
Those with a single runway will start paying RM225,000 from 2025 to 2027, RM292,000 from 2028 to 2030, and RM351,000 from 2031.
Short take-off and landing airports will pay RM25,000 (2025-2027), RM39,000 (2028-2030) and RM46,800 (from 2031).
Heliports on shore and shipboard helidecks will see charges of RM37,500 from 2025 to 2027, RM48,750 from 2028 to 2030 and RM58,500 from 2031.
Airlines will also have to fork out more for the annual renewal of certificates of airworthiness for each aircraft, based on the maximum certificated take-off mass.
Fees for application of renewal for certificates relating to continuing airworthiness management, maintenance of aeronautical products and maintenance training and renewal of air operator certificates will see substantial increases every three years from 2025.
Norazman said the changes in the fee structure marked a pivotal moment for the aviation regulator, signalling a transition from a state-sponsored model to a cost-recovery one funded by the industry.
“Recognising the pivotal role of a robust aviation regulatory framework and efficient air navigation services, the government has undertaken comprehensive measures to reform CAAM’s financial structure, ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
“The approval of the new aviation pricing framework reflects a milestone achievement, built upon extensive consultations initiated in 2021, and collaborative efforts among industry stakeholders, regulatory authorities and the government,” he said.
In their feedback early this year, stakeholders had urged CAAM to reconsider the increases which they said were too steep and would burden aerodrome and airline operators, especially as they are still in the process of recovering from the impact of Covid-19.
They also voiced fear that the increases would be passed on to air travellers who would be burdened by the higher costs as the operators of airlines and aerodromes would have no choice.