Tun M Disagree With MAS To Discontinue London-Langkawi Direct Flight
Bernama – 3/4/2006
LANGKAWI,Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad says he disagree with Malaysia Airlines terminating the London-Langkawi direct flight as it may affect the island's tourism industry.

"The decision to discontinue the direct flight will jeopardise the Langkawi tourism industry and its people," he told reporters after delivering his keynote address at the Langkawi Development Dialogue, here Monday.

Malaysia Airlines recently announced that it will discontinue the twice a week London-Langkawi direct flights as the sector was not making profit.

Dr Mahathir said the national carrier should find ways to overcome the losses for the London-Langkawi sector.

"I hope Malaysia Airlines will not terminate the direct flight but find ways to overcome the losses. The arrivals of tourist from London will bring good to the tourism industry in Langkawi," he said.

Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid, who was present at the press conference, said the state government has written to Malaysia Airlines asking the national carrier to reconsider the decision.

He said the state government has also written to Transport Minister Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy on the matter, including to request for an "open sky" concept for international flights into Langkawi so that more international airlines would land at the Langkawi International Airport.
Source: Bernama | www.bernama.com