Expansion works on Penang International Airport (PIA) have officially begun, with the RM1.5 billion project set to be completed by 2028. The project is divided into three key packages aimed at enhancing the airport’s capacity and facilities to meet growing passenger demand.

Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee Chairman Wong Hon Wai announced that the appointed project team is already on-site, carrying out preparations. “Package 1 focuses on the construction of ancillary buildings and associated works, while Package 2 will upgrade the apron and airside facilities. The main terminal building expansion will be undertaken under Package 3,” Wong explained.

Additionally, the project team will coordinate with MRT Corp to build a light rail transit (LRT) station near the terminal, enhancing connectivity to the airport.

PIA has seen significant growth in passenger movement this year. Between January and September, the airport recorded a 6.78% increase in total passengers, with 5,553,881 passengers passing through its gates compared to 5,201,419 in the same period last year. Wong estimates that by the end of 2024, the airport will handle around 7.8 million passengers, up from seven million last year. Once the expansion is complete, PIA will have the capacity to accommodate 12 million passengers annually.

The upgrades include the installation of 10 new autogates in the international departure and arrival halls, set to begin in November, along with the deployment of 30 additional Immigration personnel. The Immigration Department has also set up a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) help desk to assist foreign travelers.

Once complete, PIA will become Malaysia’s second-largest airport, with an increased aircraft parking capacity of 28 commercial planes, up from the current 16.