MALAYSIAN AIRPORTS AMONG THOSE COMMENDED FOR 50 PCT REDUCTION IN USER CHARGERS

GENEVA, Dec 15 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Airports are among those commended for
a 50 per cent reduction in user charges, at the International Air
Transport Association (IATA) Global Media Day here, Tuesday.

Other airports which received a similar commendation were Singapore's Changi
Airport for a 25 percent reduction, Toronto Pearson Airport for its 10 per cent
discount as well as the Copenhagen Airport and Aeroports de Paris, which had
agreed to freeze charges in 2010.

"But we have had many disappointments. India increased airport charges by
US$587 million.Eurocontrol states increased unit rates equal to US$360
million in costs," said IATA's director general and chief executive officer,
Giovanni Bisignani.

Dubai meanwhile, increased passenger fees by US$227 million, Heathrow
increased its charges by US$161 million and South Africa is proposing a 133
percent increase in charges for 2010 and 2011, ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

"In total in 2009, we expect to save our members US$1.7 billion in charges
for airports, air traffic management and fuel.

"Despite the progress, the industry incurred US$1.9 billion in cost
increases, of which 90 percent was from airports.

"So, the battle continues," Bisignani noted.

-- BERNAMA