After delays, KLIA aerotrain now ready for 24/7 operations

• MAHB managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani in the statement said, “The aerotrain is a vital link in KLIA’s operations, and we are committed to keeping it reliable for our passengers.

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 3): After a scheduled two-week maintenance period, the KLIA aerotrain has successfully resumed round-the-clock operations, according to airport operator Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB).

The overnight works, conducted from Aug 18 to 31 without disrupting daytime passenger travel, were completed to fine-tune the system's reliability and responsiveness based on operational data gathered since its July launch.

During the maintenance window, airside shuttle buses seamlessly transported passengers between the main and satellite terminals to ensure connectivity.

Contractor Alstom also used this period to successfully test a critical signalling software update, reinforcing the system's safety and efficiency, said MAHB in a statement on Wednesday.

MAHB has confirmed the aerotrain is now fully operational, marking a significant milestone in resolving the initial teething problems that had plagued the service.

MAHB managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani in the statement said, “The aerotrain is a vital link in KLIA’s operations, and we are committed to keeping it reliable for our passengers.

"The completion of these scheduled works reflects our focus on service excellence and ensuring a smooth travel experience at the airport. We will continue to invest in infrastructure that delivers greater reliability, safety, and comfort for all travellers.”

The aerotrain at KLIA Terminal 1 came under heavy scrutiny after the newly upgraded RM456 million driverless train suffered several disruptions since resuming full operations on July 1, following a more than two-year suspension caused by a breakdown.

Among the incidents was a temporary halt on just three days on July 4, when heavy rain caused water to accumulate in the tunnel.

This has prompted MAHB to carry out scheduled overnight maintenance on the aerotrain system for two weeks during non-peak hours to minimise passenger disruption.

The 25-year-old aerotrain service was first suspended in March 2023.

Five months later, MAHB terminated the services of its contractor Pestec International Bhd (KL:PESTEC) for non-performance.

Pestec was later reappointed in January 2024 to the KLIA aerotrain replacement project, this time as a joint-venture partner with IJM Construction Sdn Bhd in a consortium with French rolling stock manufacturer Alstom.

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