SIBU: Singapore’s Scoot airline has been urged to consider revising its Singapore-Sibu flight schedule to better accommodate travellers, particularly seniors and children.
Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Dudong Branch Chairman Wong Ching Yong, said as it is the flight is way too early which may force travelers to incur the expense of staying in costly hotels at Changi Airport.
“In my opinion, it’s advantageous to have Scoot serving this route, but the timing isn’t convenient. The flights from Singapore to Sibu depart at 5.25am every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, while the return flights are at 7.50am.
“This early schedule is puzzling,” Wong said when met by reporters at SUPP Dudong Branch Mobile Service here Sunday (Mar 10).
He highlighted that the financial burden on passengers forced to stay overnight in Singapore due to the flight schedule, citing the high hotel rates charged in Singapore Dollars such as three-star hotels which could exceed RM400 per night.
While acknowledging Scoot’s affordable fares, Wong emphasised that the additional expenses incurred by staying overnight in Singapore could negate the cost savings of the flight.
In contrast, Wong pointed out that the flight schedule for the Singapore-Miri route is more favourable, with departures in the late afternoon and evening, providing a more convenient option for travellers.
Wong urged Scoot to reconsider and adjust the timing of its Singapore-Sibu flights to better meet the needs of passengers.
Following recent discussions between State Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin and the subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), it was agreed that Scoot will increase flight frequencies to Sarawak starting in May and June this year.
As part of the agreement, Kuching will maintain seven flights per week, Miri will have four weekly flights starting May 20, and Sibu will have three weekly flights starting June 5.
