Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 16 March 2025
The Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) has formally urged AirAsia to reconsider its decision to suspend flights between Kuala Lumpur and Sri Vijaya Puram, scheduled to take effect from April 12, 2025.
A delegation led by AATO President M. Vinod met with the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Admiral D.K. Joshi (Retd.), on March 13 to discuss the issue. The Andaman & Nicobar Administration has already submitted a proposal to the Government of India, requesting waivers on landing charges and airport fees to ease operational costs for AirAsia and encourage the airline to continue servicing the route.
According to AATO, passenger demand on the Kuala Lumpur–Sri Vijaya Puram sector has been steadily increasing, particularly with the approaching peak travel season. The association pointed to ongoing promotional efforts, such as trade fairs and roadshows in Kuala Lumpur, as further boosting travel interest. Additionally, AATO highlighted the potential for AirAsia to tap into new revenue streams through cargo operations, making the route financially viable.
In its appeal, AATO suggested that instead of a full suspension, AirAsia could consider reducing the frequency of flights to maintain vital connectivity between Southeast Asia and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The association stressed that the route plays a crucial role in promoting tourism, facilitating business ties, and enhancing regional connectivity.
AirAsia has yet to respond to the appeal. The tourism sector, stakeholders, and travellers are now awaiting the airline’s decision, hoping for a positive outcome that supports the region’s growing travel and trade links.