KLIA trials speedier pick-up system improve traffic flow

If you’ve ever had to wait for your car, or are the one doing the pick-up at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, those above have finally heard your complaints. From September 2025, KLIA will begin trials for a speedier pick-up system to improve KLIA traffic flow at both terminals.

KLIA traffic flow trial details

The its new Vehicle Access Management System (VAMS) trial will commence on 1st September at Terminal 1, at Level 5 (departure drop-off) and Level 3 (arrival pick-up). For Terminal 2, the VAMS trial period will begin on 15th September. The trials at both terminals will run until till 30th November.

The system uses timed entry and exit via barrier gates, and is designed to reduce congestion caused by unauthorised or extended stops at the kerbside. It’s expected that the trial will improve traffic flow, enhancing safety, and providing smoother access to the terminal.

During the trial phase, VAMS will grant vehicles a 10-minute grace period for drop-offs and pick-ups, with the system monitoring vehicles remaining beyond this time. No penalty fees will be imposed during the trial period, as the focus will be on observing traffic patterns, driver behaviour, and overall system performance to determine the optimal grace period and penalty fee structure for full implementation.

Following the trial period, penalty fees will be levied to discourage extended waiting at the kerbside. Any grace period duration and the penalty fee amounts will be determined based on data collected during the trial, to ensure the system effectively balances accessibility with traffic flow management.

Malaysia Airports MD, Mohd Izani Ghani, noted that as the terminal is often travellers’ first and final impression of Malaysia, the airport wants that to reflect their hospitality and efficiency, particularly in the preparation for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

…. Airports worldwide are adopting smarter kerbside management to reduce congestion and elevate the passenger experience. At KLIA, our goal is to create a safer, more efficient, and passenger-friendly airport environment.

Now it’s time for us as passengers and drivers, to ensure good KLIA traffic flow as the new system is designed to encourage responsible use of the drop-off and pick-up lanes. This initiative is expected to ease congestion, reduce waiting times, and improve safety, particularly during peak travel hours.