Sultan Azlan Shah Airport

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (Malay: Lapangan Terbang Sultan Azlan Shah; (IATA: IPH, ICAO: WMKI) ) is an airport located in Ipoh, the capital city of the Perak state in Malaysia. Named after Sultan Azlan Shah of Perak, a former Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King) of Malaysia, the airport serves as a key gateway to the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia, offering both domestic and international flights.

History

The airport was originally a small airfield that was used by the British during the colonial period. It was later upgraded and officially opened as a public airport in the 1960s to cater to the growing needs of the city of Ipoh and its surrounding areas. Over the years, Sultan Azlan Shah Airport has undergone several expansions and renovations to accommodate the increasing number of passengers and flights. In recent years, the airport has seen further upgrades to its facilities and runway to allow for larger aircraft.

Facilities

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport features a single runway and a terminal building that houses both arrival and departure facilities. The terminal is equipped with basic amenities such as check-in counters, baggage handling systems, and a waiting area. There are also several retail and food outlets within the terminal for the convenience of travelers. The airport is capable of handling aircraft as large as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, making it a crucial hub for both domestic and regional air traffic.

Airlines and Destinations

Several airlines operate at Sultan Azlan Shah Airport, providing connections to major cities within Malaysia such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang, as well as international destinations. The airport plays a significant role in promoting tourism and business in the Perak region by offering direct access to various attractions such as the famous Ipoh Old Town, Cameron Highlands, and the Royal Belum State Park.

Transportation

The airport is located approximately 6 kilometers from the city center of Ipoh, making it easily accessible by road. Taxi services, ride-hailing apps, and car rentals are available for passengers looking to travel to and from the airport. There are also plans to improve public transportation links to the airport, including bus services that will connect it with key locations in the city.

Future Developments

The Malaysian government and the Perak state authorities have announced plans for further expansion of Sultan Azlan Shah Airport. These plans include extending the runway to accommodate larger aircraft and increasing the capacity of the terminal building. The aim is to transform the airport into a major hub for tourism and commerce in the region, supporting the economic growth of Perak and northern Malaysia.

See Also

• List of airports in Malaysia
• Transport in Malaysia
• Tourism in Malaysia