In 2024, Malaysia Aviation Group Bhd (MAG) is poised to introduce a total of 12 new aircraft, marking a significant expansion effort. This expansion marks the debut of four Airbus A330-900 (A330neo) and eight Boeing 737-8 aircraft, strategically aimed at meeting the group’s network growth needs.
The A330neo, with its capability to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 25%, demonstrates MAG’s dedication to operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Additionally, it will introduce the newly designed Collins Aerospace Elevation Business Class seats. The A330neo will comprise 297 seats (28 in Business Class and 269 in Economy Class, of which 24 seats come with extra legroom). Furthermore, the group plans to retrofit six A350-900 aircraft starting in 2026, aligning with the new A330neo cabin design.
MAG signed a memorandum of understanding in August 2022 for the acquisition of 20 A330neo. Ten are directly purchased from Airbus, while the remaining ten are leased from Avolon. The fleet modernization plan includes gradually replacing the A330ceo fleet with the new A330neo starting in Q3 2024, operating across Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East. MAG currently holds a fleet of 104 aircraft through its subsidiaries Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, MASwings, and MASkargo.
(Sources: Malaysia Aviation Group; Business Today)