Travellers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) were left frustrated after the airport’s Aerotrain, which had just resumed operations on 1 July 2025 following a 28-month suspension, reportedly suffered two separate breakdowns within just four days.
The Aerotrain, KLIA’s airport monorail system connecting the main terminal and the satellite building, had undergone a RM456 million overhaul aimed at improving transport efficiency, reliability, and passenger safety. However, complaints quickly emerged online when social media posts revealed that the service experienced its first disruption on the evening of 2 July, barely a day and a half into its relaunch.
Passenger Blamed for Forcing Train Doors
According to viral posts, some netizens believe the first breakdown was caused by human error rather than technical failure. Facebook user Nur Liyana claimed that a passenger forcefully pried open the train doors, jamming the system and halting operations. “He thought it’s a lift door that can just play play ah? This kind of inconsiderate behaviour makes everyone suffer,” she wrote.
The incident reignited concerns about passenger discipline and raised questions about whether the new Aerotrain system’s door mechanisms could withstand improper use. Malaysian social media was abuzz with criticisms, with many lamenting the recurring issues with KLIA’s internal transport systems and labelling them as a reflection of “Malaysia’s unique brand of efficiency”.
Second Breakdown Adds to Public Frustration
On 4 July, the Aerotrain faced yet another breakdown, with photos on Facebook showing passengers being ushered back onto shuttle buses to travel between terminals. Many expressed their disappointment online, pointing out that the airport’s promise of a faster, safer, and more reliable Aerotrain seemed unfulfilled.
One traveller wrote: “We waited so long for it to reopen, but it breaks down twice in four days? Back to shuttle bus again. So embarrassing for a world-class airport.” Comments highlighted that repeated transport disruptions could harm KLIA’s reputation and diminish confidence among international visitors.
Airport Authority Responds with Contingency Measures
Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) has yet to release detailed explanations about either breakdown but assured that shuttle buses would continue as temporary replacements to minimise inconvenience for travellers. The company reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and efficient service, saying it was investigating both incidents thoroughly.
KLIA’s Aerotrain had been suspended since March 2023 after frequent malfunctions due to its ageing system. The recently upgraded Aerotrain was expected to resume seamless, high-capacity transport between the main terminal and satellite building, essential for maintaining airport efficiency during peak travel seasons.
Until full reliability is restored, MAHB advised passengers to factor in additional travel time between terminals to avoid missing flights.