CAAM said the initiative allows airlines to operate on more direct flight paths, or “shortcut routes”, reducing overall flight distances, fuel consumption, and operating costs.

“This initiative is particularly timely amid the ongoing global fuel price volatility, where operational efficiencies are critical in helping airlines mitigate cost pressures while simultaneously advancing environmental sustainability,” it said in a statement.

CAAM said the initiative is also expected to shorten flight times, improve schedule reliability, and enhance overall passenger experience, while also reducing carbon emissions.

It said direct routes had been fully implemented within the Kuala Lumpur FIR, while operational trials are under way in the Kota Kinabalu FIR as part of a phased rollout.

It said the system forms part of Malaysia’s broader transition towards free route airspace and future user-preferred routes, aimed at enhancing flexibility and efficiency in airspace management.

CAAM said the Kuala Lumpur FIR is expected to generate about RM1.66 million in annual fuel savings, while the Kota Kinabalu FIR can deliver over RM15.4 million, driven by more efficient and shortened routing structures.

It did not say why the initiative was not implemented earlier.