Miri Airport ready for more international flights, including Korea and China routes, says Chiew

MIRI (March 1): Miri Airport is now fully prepared to handle additional international flights, including potential services from South Korea and China, said Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Chiew Choon Man.

Chiew noted that at present, the airport receives only one international service, from Singapore.

“At this stage, Miri Airport is ready to receive international flights. Many flights from Korea and China to Kota Kinabalu operate usingthe  Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, which are narrow-body planes.

“Currently, Miri Airport is equipped to accommodate these aircraft types, commonly used by mid- and low-cost airlines for international flights of no more than five hours,” he told reporters after launching a cultural dance performance as part of Motac’s initiative in promoting tourism here at Miri Airport on Sunday.

He cited an example where flights from China or Korea to Kota Kinabalu take approximately three to four hours.

Chiew, who is also Miri MP, said most airlines require a minimum runway length of 2,600 metres for landing, while Miri Airport’s runway currently measures 2,745 metres.

“This means we meet most of their requirements. Miri Airport can be considered fully ready, even before any expansion plans have been undertaken,” he said.

On the airport’s experience in handling international services, he pointed out that Miri has already received flights from Singapore.

“This demonstrates that the facilities, systems, and operations at Miri Airport are of a high standard. I will continue to engage with the airline industry and relevant stakeholders.

“If not direct flights, then at least transit or stopover flights, particularly from Kota Kinabalu,” he said, adding that this would be his target for this year.

He also acknowledged that many South Korean tourists visiting Kota Kinabalu are drawn to Miri, which offers golf facilities popular among younger visitors.

“This presents significant potential for us to explore. Since many Korean travellers stop in Kota Kinabalu, why not encourage them to also visit Miri? This could serve as an additional strategy to expand our tourism market,” Chiew said.

In response to a question, Chiew said that organising K-pop concerts in Miri could also be an interesting idea, as large-scale events like these could further attract tourists.