MATTA supports cap on domestic airfares during peak seasons

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) supports the Ministry of Transport’s initiative to put a cap on domestic airfares, as astronomical high fares during peak seasons have placed a heavy burden on the people.

MATTA President Datuk Tan Kok Liang said Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Ab Aziz Kaprawi had voiced his concern that domestic airfares might balloon up to five times during festive seasons and was looking into capping fares at no more than 2.5 times higher than average.

“MATTA would like to see any rise in fares be capped to between 1.5 to 2.0 times, as air travel is not a luxury but an essential service for travel between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.

Tan added that the return airfare from Kota Kinabalu to Kuala Lumpur can range from RM500 to RM2,900 per person depending on the season and availability of seats based on the reservation booking system.

More affordable airfares across the South China Sea would be welcome news for those that return to celebrate with their families, relatives and friends.

“It will also encourage Malaysians to travel within the country and boost domestic tourism. High domestic fares have driven away many Malaysians to overseas destinations flying on cheaper airfares,” he pointed out.

Airlines should review their pricing strategy during low and high periods so as not to victimise passengers travelling during peak seasons. Airlines have various classes and fares based on their Reservations Booking Designator to maximise revenue, he said.

“The authorities such as the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) and Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC) should closely monitor and ensure airlines do not form or behave like cartels to drive up fares, especially during peak seasons,” concluded Tan.