Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of Malaysia Airlines, has expressed concerns regarding ongoing operational challenges at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). These issues include delays and inefficiencies in baggage handling, congestion, and disruptions to the aerotrain service, which resumed operations in July after a two-year hiatus.
During a media briefing, MAG's incoming president and CEO, Captain Nasaruddin A Bakar, highlighted that the mishandled baggage rate at KLIA remains above the group's internal target of 3.5 per 1,000 passengers, currently at 5.45 as of November 2025. He attributed this partly to the condition of the airport’s baggage handling system, which impacts the airline's performance and brand reputation.
Operational and Capacity Challenges
Group Chief Strategy Officer Bryan Foong Chee Yeong noted that while MAG has communicated its needs and growth expectations to Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), progress has been slower than anticipated. Both organizations aim to enhance traffic and connectivity; however, current operational constraints, especially with the aerotrain and baggage systems, hinder the passenger experience.
Foong expressed willingness to collaborate on resolving current issues and discussed longer-term options such as terminal expansion or new airport infrastructure over the next five years. The aerotrain, which resumed service in July, has experienced four disruptions in four months, and both parties are working to address these challenges.
With a leadership change planned at MAG, as Nasaruddin is set to succeed Datuk Captain Izham Ismail at the end of January, the group is focusing on operational improvements and service quality at KLIA to maintain its outlook amid these temporary setbacks.
