KUALA LUMPUR- Malaysia Aviation Group Bhd (MAG), which owns Malaysia Airlines (MH), has committed to purchasing 30 new Boeing aircraft as the next step in their strategic fleet modernization plan.
This acquisition represents the second phase of their comprehensive renewal efforts, according to a recent press release by Boeing.
Malaysia Airlines Boeing 737 MAX; Photo: Malaysia AirlinesMalaysia Airlines Boeing Order
The announcement marks a significant milestone in the company’s long-term strategic vision for operational growth and efficiency.
This procurement follows industry reports from early February when The Edge revealed that MAG had finalized an order for at least 25 narrow-body aircraft after issuing a request for proposal last year.
Over the past year, Malaysia Airlines has significantly advanced its fleet renewal program. In late 2024, the carrier received four new Airbus A330neo aircraft, enhancing its long-haul capabilities with improved fuel efficiency and passenger experience.
Additionally, the airline completed cabin refurbishments across its existing widebody fleet, updating interiors and in-flight entertainment systems to modern standards.
These initiatives have helped maintain the carrier’s 5-star Skytrax rating while addressing growing competition in the premium travel segment across Southeast Asia.
Photo: By Pilecaps – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=128410824Malaysia Airlines Fleet Status
MAG currently operates a system-wide fleet of 113 aircraft, including 42 Boeing 737-800s under Malaysia Airlines (MH) and five under its Firefly (FY) subsidiary.
The group currently maintains an existing order for 25 Boeing 737-8 aircraft through a long-term lease arrangement with Air Lease Corporation. Eleven of these aircraft have already been delivered, with the remaining planes scheduled for delivery by 2027.
The recently announced order includes 12 Boeing 737-10 and 18 Boeing 737-8 aircraft, all of which are propelled by CFM International LEAP-1B engines. In order to give MAG flexibility for future growth, the agreement also includes options for an extra 30 Boeing 737 aircraft.
Firefly- Subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines; Photo- Anton Zelenov; Wikimedia CommonsFleet Modernization
In a notable enhancement to its service offerings, MAG confirmed the 737-10 aircraft will be the first narrow-body planes in its fleet to feature lie-flat Business Class seats on regional routes. Passenger comfort and competitive positioning in the luxury travel market have significantly improved as a result of this upgrade.
The group plans to systematically phase out older Boeing 737-800 aircraft as part of this renewal strategy. By 2030, MAG wants to run a fully updated fleet of 55 Boeing 737-10 and 737-8 aircraft, significantly improving environmental performance and operational efficiency.
Photo: Malaysia AirlinesExecutive Remarks
A formal commemorative ceremony celebrating the new order took place in Putrajaya, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in attendance. This underscored the national importance of this fleet investment.
“The Boeing 737 has been a cornerstone of our fleet since 1969, with the introduction of the first 737-100 during the Malaysia-Singapore Airlines era. It has since played a vital role in supporting the growth of our national airline.”
-Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Managing Director, MAG
He underlined that the 737-10 and 737-8 models were chosen after a thorough analysis of the business’s long-term growth strategy, guaranteeing that the aircraft would be suitable to satisfy changing market demands.
“This investment represents a bold step in securing MAG’s future, enhancing our ability to respond to market opportunities, drive greater value across our operations, and support the broader aviation ecosystem,” Izham explained.
The next-generation aircraft has several operational advantages. Some of these include- enhanced passenger comfort, longer range, and higher fuel efficiency.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
Malaysia Welcomed 12 New Airlines, 24 New Destinations in 2024
The post Malaysia Airlines Orders 18 New Boeing 737-8 and 12 737-10 Aircraft appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
