ASEAN Airlines to Enjoy Stopover Freedom, Boosting Trade and Tourism

[snoop1130]

 

In a landmark update, member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) airlines will soon be granted the freedom to perform multiple stopovers across member territories. This marks a significant change from the current provisions, which only permit direct return flights between two destinations.

 

This announcement was made by Anthony Loke, Malaysian Transport Minister, noting that this change will be activated once all ASEAN member states sign Protocol 5 on Own Stopover Rights. However, all ASEAN members, excluding Myanmar and Indonesia, have signed Protocol 5 as of now.

 

During a press conference, Loke provided an example stating, "A flight departing from Kuala Lumpur could go to Singapore, proceed to Bali, Indonesia, and from there carry on to other ASEAN destinations.”

 

 

This news was proclaimed at the 30th Asian Transport Ministers (ATM) and the 58th Senior Transport Officials Meetings (STOM). Loke strongly believes that this protocol will boost regional air connectivity, offering airlines more operational flexibility. "This initiative will push tourism and accentuate trade by proposing more seamless and convenient air travel options across the region."

 

Asian carriers, including Malaysian operators who possess substantial regional route networks, are anticipated to reap significantly from this enhancement.

 

The protocol has been dispatched to the remaining member states yet to sign. According to Loke, we can expect Protocol 5 to be implemented by 2025, once all the signatures from member states are brought onboard. This move signals the start of a new era for ASEAN airlines and an exciting switch for passengers who shall now enjoy more travel routes and options.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-25