KUB Malaysia Bhd has completed the third runway at the new terminal for low-cost carriers, KLIA2, said its chairperson Abd Halim Abd Samad.

He said the runway project was delivered on time, before the opening of KLIA2, which was expected in May next year.

“The completion marked another milestone for the group as this was its first foray into the airport construction business,” he said in Sepang today.

Abd Halim said this after witnessing the trial landing of the first commercial aircraft Malindo Air Boeing 737-900ER on the third runway.

Also present was Acting Transport Minister Hishammuddin Hussein.

Hishammuddin, who is also Defence Minister, said the completion of the runway was a significant milestone in the nation’s aviation history.

“Only the airport ground lighting has not been completed,” he said.

On allegations that the runway was not built according to the specifications which may be resulted in it sinking, Hishammmuddin said they were not fair to all parties who had worked hard to complete the project.

“If our runway is going to sink, I don’t think the international body will recognise the profesionalism that exists within our team.

“We have retained our seat in the International Civil Aviation Organisation,” he said.

On KLIA2's progress, Hishammuddin said construction was on track to meet the deadline next year.

He said the KLIA2's task force, headed by Deputy Transport Minister  Abdul Aziz Kaprawi, reported the progress to him weekly.

The runway, 3,960 metres long and 60 metres wide, can accommodate any aircraft currently operating including B-744 and A340-600 or similar aircraft at full capacity.

- Bernama