Ascend Airways Malaysia targets November launch as AOC progresses
June 4, 2025
Established as a new airline under the Avia Solutions Groups and as a sister carrier to UK-based Ascend Airways, Ascend Airways Malaysia has progressed to Phase 3 of its Air Operator Certificate (AOC). The carrier now plans to commence cargo operations in November 2025, with passenger services due to follow shortly after.
The Kuala Lumpur-based ACMI and charter provider was granted its Conditional Air Service Permit (CASP) by the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) in 2024. It has since been working closely with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) to secure full certification. Full flight operations are anticipated by the end of this year once the AOC has been granted.
Freight expectations
Leveraging Southeast Asia’s rapidly growing aviation market, the airline plans to commence operations with a Boeing 737-800 freighter, which is due to arrive in Malaysia in Q3, 2025. The arrival of the aircraft will support the final steps of the AOC process and the initial launch of cargo services. Two additional Boeing 737-800 passenger aircraft are scheduled to join the fleet by the end of 2025 and early 2026.
“As it is our mission to support the growth of local and regional airlines, we want to become a trusted ACMI partner that can help them increase operational agility and capture the rising demand for passenger and cargo operations, which are on the rise in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Germal Singh Khera, CEO of Ascend Airways Malaysia.
The airline’s wet-leasing model will enable regional carriers and logistics companies to scale operations during peak periods and navigate disruptions caused by aircraft maintenance or scheduling issues.
ACMI: A proven solution
“Ascend Airways remains focused and committed to deliver flexible ACMI solutions and develop its seasonal fleet strategy between the UK and Malaysia and the Asia-Pacific region,” added Alastair Wilson, CEO of UK-based Ascend Airways. “ACMI is a proven solution for airlines seeking to efficiently meet dynamic travel demand and unlock new revenue opportunities.”
With the UK and Malaysia enjoying a liberal bilateral air services agreement, which permits 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th freedom flights, as well as wet and damp leasing, the establishment of Ascent Airways Malaysia will enable Ascend Airways to move its capacity seasonally between the UK and Southeast Asia. The two carriers will operate a common fleet and share critical systems and services.
