Ipoh Airport Completes Major Upgrade
Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (IPH), in Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia, has completed a major upgrade project, aimed at improving its capacity, efficiency and passenger experience.
The annual passenger capacity now increased by 40 per cent to 700,000 from 500,000, thanks to a redesigned terminal layout and enhanced infrastructure.
This is part of Malaysia Airports' forward-looking strategy that prioritises optimising existing infrastructure, leveraging technology to streamline operations and raising service standards as essential foundations before embarking on large-scale expansions.
The new facilities were launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, marking a key step forward for air travel in northern Peninsular Malaysia.
Malaysia Airports Managing Director, Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said the upgrade reflects the company's commitment to improving both major and regional airports across the country.
Key improvements at IPH include the expanded terminal space by over 10 per cent to 3,257 square metres from 2,927 square metres.
This doubled the airport's peak-hour passenger handling capacity to 510 from 240 passengers per hour.
Supporting the increase, every holding lounge has been significantly enlarged to 270 square metres from 71 square metres , with new seating installed to accommodate up to 80 per cent of peak-hour demand.
Immigration facilities have also been upgraded with two additional counters on the departure side and arrivals, as well as space for two future autogates.
Passenger amenities have been significantly improved with the upgraded washrooms, accessible toilets for persons with disabilities and baby changing facilities at the domestic departure gates.
The number of security screening machines has been increased to five from two to enhance processing efficiency and minimise queuing time.
For enhanced passenger safety, the airport has implemented advanced surveillance systems and expanded CCTV coverage across the terminal, underscoring its dedication to security and operational excellence.
The flight information display system has also been upgraded, doubling the number of units from five to ten.
Provisions have also been made for future enhancements to the self-service bag drop system, reflecting Malaysia Airports' innovation-driven approach to automation and improved passenger flow.
Passengers can also now enjoy a revamped arrival hall with an integrated car rental and taxi counter, as well as updated food and beverage outlets.
IPH currently serves daily flight services by AirAsia to Johor Bahru and by Scoot to Singapore.
Source: New Straits Times