Batik Air, previously known as Malindo Air has apologised for the recent 8-hour delay, following instructions from Transport Minister, Anthony Loke.
According to the airline’s Public Relations and Government Affairs Director, Raja Sa’adi Raja Amrin, the delay was due to bad weather and an issue with the aircraft. He also assured the public that it was never the airline’s intention to delay the flight and the situation has been rectified, which has allowed their operations at the KLIA terminal to resume.
“The crew and engineers attended to the technical issue with the aircraft in order to ensure its airworthiness,” Raja explained.
Raja also said that food vouchers were distributed during the delay, but unfortunately, none of the eateries at the airport were open at that time, which was during midnight. Not only that but the airlines also could not provide accommodations to the affected guests as all nearby hotels were fully occupied.
Regardless, Raja assured everyone that Batik Air will contact all the affected customers to apologise before handing them special complimentary vouchers. He will make sure that necessary steps will be taken to ensure history does not repeat itself following the major delay, as reported by New Straits Times.
“We have taken extra measures to ensure the smooth sailing of our flight operations. This incident is deeply regretted.”
The delay took place last Friday night (December 23) with a Kuching bound flight. One of the affected flyers took to his social media to reveal the situation of the delay where many other affected flyers had to seek shelter under the cold temperature in the airport. A couple of days later, Anthony Loke revealed that he has contacted the airline and asked them to extend an apology, as well as take responsibility for the delay.
While we understand that bad weather may cause delays in scheduled flights, we hope that all airlines in Malaysia will do what it takes to ensure the aircrafts are safe to fly so that major delays can be prevented.
Also read: Wee Ka Siong Wants Airlines to Start Lowering Fares During Festive Seasons By Adding More Flights
