Bangkok--19 Jun--eturbonews
Prompt action by the authorities and AirAsia has averted a massive loss to Sarawak's tourism industry.
Some 18,000 overseas tourists who had planned to visit the state's famed world heritage site, Mulu National Park, had to wait for confirmation of their bookings due to the sudden decision by Malaysia Airlines to stop accepting flight confirmations to Mulu.
"It was only done after Malaysia Airlines and the government received reassurances from AirAsia it can start operations from August 1," said Idris Jala, Malaysia Airlines managing director. "It is irresponsible on our part to sell tickets for flights we no longer operate."
AsisAsia, which will take over the route and its contracted rural service provider, Fly Asian Xpress (FAX) is not scheduled to start service until August 1.
FAX will be operating 39 destinations in Sabah and Sarawak as part of the 99 routes AirAsia will be taking over under the rationalization of domestic air services.
The carrier wil fly from Miri to Mulu 14 times a week, and from Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu 35 times a week.
"There will be little disruption to existing bookings and no routes cut," Mohamad Zahari, general manager of FAX said.
Intervention by the Tourism Ministry brought the matter to the attention of the authorities and averted the situation turning into a crisis.
"Feedback from travel and tour agents in the state over the past few days confirmed almost all the bookings can now be saved," said Gracie Geikie, chief executive officer of Sarawak Tourism Board. "Those who cancelled their bookings could not wait as they have to start their tours."
AirAsia and FAX responded to the industry's plight by agreeing to accept bookings seven weeks ahead of officially starting its scheduled services, as bookings from overseas normally need to be confirmed months ahead.
"Flight bookings for all FAX flights can be made at all existing AirAsia call centers, airport sales counters and sales offices," AirAsia said in a statement.
The state's tourism industry can now look forward to an injection of an estimated revenue of RM31 million, basing on an average expenditure of 1,800 ringgit per person while touring the state.
"The state's tourism industry are very grateful to the authorities and AirAsia for their very proactive and swift response to our plight," added Geikie.