Malaysia Airlines unveils first A330neo
December 20, 2024
Malaysia Airlines has marked a significant milestone in its fleet modernisation, celebrating the arrival of its first Airbus A330-900neo aircraft.
The unveiling ceremony took place at Hangar 6 within the MAB Engineering Complex in Sepang, with prominent figures including Malaysia’s Minister of Transport attending, alongside key stakeholders from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the airline’s parent company.
The new aircraft, registered as 9M-MNG, took its maiden voyage on the evening of 19 December, operating flight MH149 to Melbourne.
The arrival of the A330neo is the first of 20 such aircraft set to join MAG’s fleet by 2028. These deliveries stem from an agreement signed in August 2022 between MAG and key partners Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and Avolon. Equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the aircraft promises a 14% reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to its predecessor, underscoring MAG’s commitment to sustainable aviation practices.
Inside, the A330neo features a total of 297 seats: 28 in Business Class and 269 in Economy, with 24 Economy seats offering extra legroom. A standout feature is the new Business Class cabin, which boasts a 1-2-1 herringbone layout for direct aisle access. The Collins Aerospace Elevation seats in Business Class feature privacy doors.
At the same event, Malaysia Airlines announced a premium partnership with Mercedes-Benz, unveiling plans to introduce a private terminal transfer service starting in January 2025.
Passengers eligible for this service will be chauffeured between terminals at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
MAG’s commitment to growth is evident in its broader fleet strategy. The group currently operates 107 aircraft across its subsidiaries, including Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, MASwings, and MASkargo.
By 2033, the fleet is expected to expand to 114 aircraft, comprising 62 narrowbody and 52 widebody planes. This includes the continued delivery of Boeing 737-8 aircraft, five of which have already been received, with the remaining 20 scheduled to arrive between 2025 and 2026.
YB Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia, said: “The launch of MAG’s first Airbus A330neo is not simply the introduction of a new aircraft; it is the culmination of resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in the power of progress.
“It reflects MAG’s determination to lead in a competitive industry, our nation’s commitment to sustainability, and the extraordinary potential of Malaysian talent.”
Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, group managing director of MAG, said: “The debut of our first A330neo marks a transformative moment for MAG as we modernise our fleet and set a new era of air travel where innovation, comfort, and sustainability come together seamlessly.
“This commitment underscores our dedication to placing our passengers at the heart of everything we do, delivering an exceptional and unforgettable journey that embodies the warmth and care of Malaysian Hospitality.”
