Monday, January 29, 2024
As part of its ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) is set to introduce 12 new aircraft in 2024. This includes the eagerly anticipated arrival of its first Airbus 330-900 (A330neo) in Q3 2024. The Group plans to welcome four (4) of the A330neo and eight (8) Boeing 737-8 aircraft this year, aligning with its strategic goals for network expansion.
In August 2022, MAG solidified its commitment to fleet enhancement by signing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and Avolon. The agreements outlined the acquisition of 20 A330neo aircraft, scheduled for delivery through 2028. Notably, 10 of these aircraft were directly purchased from Airbus, incorporating a back-to-back sale and leaseback arrangement with Avolon. The remaining 10 A330neo planes are set to be leased directly from Avolon. This strategic move reflects MAG’s dedication to providing modern and elevated service standards, supporting the aviation industry’s post-pandemic growth.
The A330neo, known for its enhanced operational efficiency, will contribute to MAG’s fleet goals. Notably, it offers a remarkable up to 25% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. The aircraft’s interior features a 1-2-1 configuration, showcasing the newly designed Collins Aerospace Elevation Business Class seats. These seats, a first for the Group, boast an all-suite cabin with individual privacy doors, prioritizing comfort and practicality. Adorned with seat covers featuring the signature songket motif, a nod to Malaysia’s cultural heritage with a modern touch, the A330neo seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary style. The seats, with an all-aisle access layout, ensure a fully flat and comfortable experience, incorporating luxury design elements and styling flexibility.
Malaysia Airlines is poised to become a global flagship carrier with the introduction of the Elevation seats on the A330 airframe. The A330neo will accommodate 297 seats (28 in Business Class and 269 in Economy Class, including 24 extra legroom seats). Notable features include wireless charging pods, ergonomic seat cushions, integrated in-flight entertainment (IFE) solutions with a Kids mode, and ample space for work, relaxation, and dining in ultimate comfort. The aircraft will also be equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, enhancing the overall passenger experience with the warmth of Malaysian Hospitality.
Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG, said, “We are excited to induct the first of 20 Airbus A330neo’s in Q3 of this year, which will gradually replace our A330ceo fleet and operate to our network across Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East. This expansion is not just about increasing our inventory in numbers but also introducing the first-of-its-kind cabin class, new seats and experiences that prioritises customer safety, comfort and overall satisfaction. We will continue to channel our investments into endeavours that strategically align with the key pillars driving our customer value proposition, namely cabin comfort, in-flight dining, and service delivery of our esteemed cabin crew. We aspire to curate an overall passenger experience that not only meets premium standards but exceeds them, underpinned by our inimitable Malaysian Hospitality.”
To further strengthen its fleet modernisation programme, the Group will also be retrofitting six (6) of its A350-900s beginning 2026 to ensure consistent cabin standardisation and premium experiences for its guests in alignment with the new A330neo cabin. MAG currently owns a fleet size of 104 through its subsidiaries Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, MASwings and MASkargo.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
