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Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the long-anticipated expansion of Penang International Airport (PIA) by June 2028. Estimated at RM1.55 billion, the project is aimed at addressing long-term capacity constraints and elevating the overall passenger experience at one of the country’s busiest regional airports.

The expansion will more than double PIA’s annual handling capacity—from 6.5 million to 12 million passengers—preparing the airport to meet future demand. According to MAHB group managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani, the project is being carried out in three phases. Phase One, which includes relocating government agency offices such as the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia and the Malaysian Meteorological Department, is already underway. Phase Two, focusing on apron expansion, is also in progress. Meanwhile, Phase Three, which involves the main terminal expansion, is in the final design stage. MAHB expects to secure board approval and appoint a contractor by the end of the year.

“The target completion date remains June 2028, and we are committed to meeting that timeline,” said Mohd Izani during a recent media briefing outlining MAHB’s strategic direction.

The expansion is not only expected to ease current congestion but also to position Penang as a more competitive regional hub, particularly as the island continues to see growth in tourism, business travel, and industrial activity. Mohd Izani highlighted that the airport plays a vital role in Penang’s broader economic ecosystem, and the upgrade will ensure it is equipped to support the state’s long-term development goals.

While the focus remains on Penang, MAHB is also moving forward with upgrades at other key airports. These include expansion plans for Kota Kinabalu International Airport, and improvement works at tier-two airports such as Tawau, Miri, and Kota Bharu. Additionally, discussions are ongoing regarding a new airport proposal in Sarawak and further enhancements to Subang and Langkawi airports.

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