SUBANG (Dec 22): Tioman island-based Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort today launched a dedicated eight-seater chartered flight service between Subang International Airport and the 136 sq km island.

Tunamaya's director Gan Hong Lee said two, piston-powered Cessna planes would serve the route, and that between Senai airport in Johor and the island, which was launched yesterday.

In a press conference in Subang today, Gan said there would be three flights per week for both routes.

"We are just testing the temperature of the market, so we might expand if the market reponse is good," he said.

Gan said the idea for the chartered flights came after Berjaya Air ceased its flight services to Tioman, which affected tourist volume.

"More than 30% of our customers travel to Tioman by flight, so I hope that with this service in place, our tourist arrivals volume will increase," Gan said.

The flight service is a collaboration between Tunamaya and AF Jets Sdn Bhd, an aircraft operator.

"AF Jets will operate the planes, while Tunamaya provides the hotel," AF Jets CEO Amnil Nizar said.