Apad to probe MAHB after another aerotrain service disruption

Apad to probe MAHB after another aerotrain service disruption

Transport minister Loke Siew Fook says service disruptions can no longer be tolerated as the train has been in service for several months.

aerotrain klia
The new Aerotrain service, which began on July 1, has three trains with a maximum capacity of 270 passengers each. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA:
Transport minister Loke Siew Fook has ordered the Land Public Transport Agency (Apad) to open an investigation paper into Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) after yet another disruption to the aerotrain service at KLIA Terminal 1.

Loke acknowledged that MAHB had said it needed some time to get used to the service’s new system, which commenced operations on July 1.

However, the minister said as the service had been running for several months now, disruptions could no longer be tolerated.

“The ministry, through Apad, will take stern action against MAHB for every service disruption that occurs.

“The operating licence issued to MAHB stipulates that the company must ensure the Aerotrain service operates at a satisfactory level for consumers.

“Under the Land Public Transport Act 2010, breaches of operating licence conditions are punishable by a fine of up to RM250,000,” he said in a statement.

Separately, MAHB confirmed that the aerotrain service was disrupted early this morning and on Oct 15, saying it was due to an issue with the aerotrain’s power system.

It added that the issues were under the responsibility of the system’s contractors, a joint venture between IJM Corp Bhd and Pestech International Bhd (IPJV).

“We are expecting a detailed report and clarification from system provider Alstom Transport Systems (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (Alstom) and IPJV regarding the power supply-related incidents.”

The airport operator said KLIA’s operations proceeded smoothly during the Asean Summit over the past few days, with more than 530,000 passenger movements and 3,400 flights operating.

The new Aerotrain service, which began on July 1, has three trains with a maximum capacity of 270 passengers each.

Earlier this month, deputy transport minister Hasbi Habibollah said 19 minor incidents were recorded between July 2 and Sept 30, mostly involving the service’s signalling system.

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