KUALA LUMPUR — The delivery of Malaysia Aviation Group’s (MAG) first A330neo aircraft, originally scheduled for September 2024, has been delayed and is now expected to take place by late November 2024.
MAG, the parent company of Malaysia Airlines, said the delay was due to findings identified by Airbus during the flight line stage.
“As a result of this delay, MAG regrets to inform that Malaysia Airlines’ planned inaugural A330neo flight to Melbourne on Nov 25, 2024, along with subsequent flights scheduled with the A330neo, will be impacted,” it said in a statement today.
MAG said the airline will revert to operating the A330-300 for these services, with no changes to the flight schedule.
“MAG is working closely with Airbus and its lessor, Avolon, to secure a new delivery timeline and expedite the aircraft’s entry into service.
“The airline expects to receive five A330neos by the first quarter of 2025,” it said.
On its remaining Boeing 737-8 aircraft delivery, MAG said the group is in communication with Boeing and its lessor AirLease Corp while closely monitoring the evolving situation.
MAG group managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail said these delays are significantly disrupting the fleet modernisation plans and growth requirements.
“We are deeply disappointed by the aircraft delivery delays by Airbus, compounded by the ongoing setbacks of our Boeing 737-8 deliveries,” he said.
He emphasised that having the necessary assets in place is crucial to meet MAG’s growth targets, optimise the network and continue delivering enhanced services to customers as the group takes decisive steps toward a stronger 2025.
Nevertheless, MAG said it remains committed to its fleet modernisation plans and providing exceptional customer service.
“The group Is working diligently with its aircraft manufacturers and lessors to minimise disruptions while ensuring that the highest safety standards continue to be met,” it added.
MAG selected 20 A330neo for its widebody fleet renewal initiative in 2022.
Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330neo will join the carrier’s fleet of seven long-range A350s and gradually replace its 21 A330ceo aircraft. – October 15, 2024