Malaysia’s Air Passenger Traffic Set to Exceed Pre-Covid Levels in 2025, Says Loke"

PUTRAJAYA — Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook announced today that Malaysia’s air passenger traffic is projected to surpass pre-pandemic levels in 2025.

Speaking at a press conference, Loke said the aviation sector is set for significant growth, driven by higher seat capacity, increasing demand for international travel, and rising household incomes. The Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom) forecasts passenger numbers to reach between 105.8 million and 112.9 million in 2025, surpassing the previous record of 109.3 million set in 2019.

This represents a year-on-year growth of 8.4% to 15.6%. Domestic travel is expected to see the highest growth, with a projected 21.1% increase. Airlines are set to increase capacity by 15.8% compared to the previous year.

Loke noted, however, that challenges such as supply chain disruptions and aircraft manufacturing delays remain, but airlines are tackling these issues through cost optimization and renegotiating contracts.

Mavcom also projects a 4.5% to 8.5% increase in air cargo volume in 2025, driven by economic recovery and growth in e-commerce.

In 2024, Malaysia’s air passenger traffic rose by 14.3%, reaching 97.1 million, meeting Mavcom’s projections. The increase was fueled by factors such as expanded seat capacity, visa exemptions, and improved connectivity to key destinations.