Sultan Ismail Petra Airport reopens with tripled capacity after RM440M upgrade

Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (LTSIP) in Pengkalan Chepa is set to open fully next month after a major upgrade. The RM440 million expansion aims to handle up to four million passengers a year, a sharp rise from the previous 1.5 million. The revamped terminal now spans 36,000 square metres, three times its original size.

The airport's terminal building has grown from 12,000 to 36,000 square metres. Departures now take place on the upper level via an aerobridge, while arrivals are processed below. Inside, over 20 airline counters serve passengers, though only Malaysia Airlines currently operates scheduled flights—mostly domestic routes to Kuala Lumpur.

Parking has seen a major boost, with 1,300 multi-storey bays replacing the previous 350. Plans are also in place for long-term parking at affordable rates. On the tarmac, aircraft parking bays have more than doubled, from five to eleven.

The upgrade includes a terminal fire and rescue station, dedicated taxi lanes, and a fully cashless system. The expansion comes just ahead of Aidilfitri, when passenger numbers are expected to surge.

The RM440 million project has transformed LTSIP into a larger, more efficient hub. With expanded facilities and increased capacity, the airport is now equipped to manage growing passenger traffic. Full operations will begin next month, coinciding with the festive travel rush.