Every public transport needs an upgrade, just like KLIA Terminal 1’s aerotrain. Thankfully, though, the connecting gates in Terminal 1 will be in service again soon! While everyone’s eyes are on Malaysia’s major airport in Sepang, one international hub on the Northwest coast is brewing a big surprise for its guests.
Penang International Airport in Georgetown has been around since 1935, which makes it almost a century old! In modern days, the hub sees up to 6.5 million guests annually, which makes it one of the busiest airports in the nation. There have been discussions about airport renovations, and they’re now finally true to their words. With over RM1.5 billion invested in the renovations, here are 4 things to anticipate at the upcoming and upgraded Penang International Airport:
1. Connecting LRT Line
Did you hear? The public will find Penang’s LRT line, currently under construction, quite convenient, as it will stop at Penang International Airport! The only public transport available at the KLIA terminals is the ERL, which runs at a frequency of one train every 15 minutes during rush hour. In contrast, the LRT route is expected to provide more frequent trains.
2. Airport Expansion
As previously stated, the present hub can accommodate up to 6.5 million passengers per year. However, they aim to cater to 12 million visitors annually—nearly twice as many as they currently do—with plans to expand the airport.
3. Extended Apron
An airport apron, also known as a tarmac, is the designated area for aeroplanes to park, unload, refuel, and more. Penang International Airport would therefore be able to accommodate more planes simultaneously without overcrowding the hub thanks to an extended apron.
4. Terminal Renovation
Although it was first finished in 1935, the airport has gone through numerous upgrades to modernise it. It was first renovated back in 1979 and was further expanded in 2012. From the outside, the airport looks timeless. However, you can definitely tell that time has passed from the inside. So, the hub will be getting a fresh new look to fit into this modern time!
We’re confident that we’ll receive further details about the hub’s improvement work soon, but this is all we have so far. Are you excited about the new and improved Penang International Airport? Because we sure are!
May contributed to this article.
