KUCHING: The newly revised Passenger Service Charges (PSC) for the First Regulatory Period (RP1), effective from June 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026 by Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) have sparked expectations and suggestions from frequent flyers regarding improvements in airport services.
As stated by MAVCOM, the newly revised PSC rates range between RM7 and RM73 for RP1 payable by passengers departing from and transferring through Malaysia while maintaining the domestic departure PSC at RM11 at all airports except Senai International Airport.
The implementation of these revised rates aims to bolster the aviation sector’s recovery and adaptability in the post COVID-19 pandemic landscape.
New Sarawak Tribune had the opportunity to interview and get some feedback from frequent flyers on their thoughts pertaining to the recent announcement.
RAPIK B., 37, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) postgraduate student
There are benefits and drawbacks to raising passenger service charges (PSC) especially for foreign travel. On the pros’ side, higher PSC can support airport infrastructure growth, which results in improved amenities and services for travellers, more funds can be set aside for the installation of cutting-edge safety measures, which will raise aviation safety standards generally and the money raised from higher PSC may be put towards environmentally beneficial projects like purchasing sustainable practices and greener technologies. As a result of rising PSC, however, passenger ticket prices rise, thereby making air travel less feasible for some. Increased prices may deter people from travelling, which would impact the business and tourism travel industries and consequently the local economies. In fact, airlines operating in areas with high PSC may find it difficult to compete with those from areas with lower fees, which can have an impact on their ability to operate in the market.
DESMOND MARKUS, 34, Sarawak Skills corporate executive
As someone who frequently travels overseas, the newly revised Passenger Service Charge (PSC) reflects a significant and excessively high difference. Perhaps it could be reconsidered to prioritise and offer special benefits to local residents, such as lower prices for Malaysians and different rates for foreigners. If the PSC rates increase, MAVCOM may need to enhance airport services accordingly. This could create a win-win situation for MAVCOM and customers.
SULIE ABELL, 36, Entrepreneur
I don’t mind paying the passenger service charge as long as the airports and their services remain top-notch. By this, I mean continuous improvement in facilities, cleanliness, and convenience for airport users. Regarding facilities, we hope for an increase in 24-hour shops, expanded free lounge areas, better-maintained bathrooms, and updated vending machines.
