Malaysia Airlines reduces frequencies on routes and refocuses on safety and resilience

Malaysia Airlines has announced it will drastically reduce frequencies across its network as it struggles with severe delays and operational issues. The latest move will reduce capacity primarily on its domestic network, with international flights also affected, but to a lesser extent. The airline says the measures will remain in place until December as it reprioritizes safety.

Photo: Ryan Fletcher | Shutterstock

“Fleet reliability and operational resilience” are top priorities

Malaysia Aviation Group released a statement on Saturday from Managing Director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail. In it he recognized the “Disturbance” and gave reasons “Supply chain bottlenecks, human resource challenges and other external factors as global flight operations continue to return to normal after the pandemic.” Some, including Sebastian Powell of Loyalty Lobby, believe that COVID-19 will no longer be a very credible reason in 2024.

MAG has also been hit by delays in aircraft deliveries, meaning the fleet is under greater strain as the airline tries to meet its expected schedule. It is currently negotiating with aircraft and engine manufacturers to find solutions.

“As this happens, MAG will need to temporarily reduce its network from now until December 2024 to implement corrective actions as needed. This is to ensure the long-term reliability of our fleet and the robustness of our operations, and to enhance our ability to ensure our customers on Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and Amal flights face minimal disruption and have the best possible flying experience with us.”

Photo: Airbus

Aeroroutes reports that 13 international routes from its Kuala Lumpur (KUL) hub will be affected by the changes. They are listed below.

This represents a capacity cut of around 20%, according to analyst Shukor Yusof. Yusof also pointed to the financial impact this is likely to have, as the significant operational downsizing to end the “The financial year is deep in the red, although we had positive cash flow for much of the year.”

Deep-rooted security problems

Malaysia Airlines’ safety record has left much to be desired recently. According to Malaysian Transport Minister Wee Ka Siong, there have indeed been a number of incidents in recent months. These have damaged the company’s reputation, he says. The incidents were as follows:

Photo: alphonsusjimos | Shutterstock

The series of recent incidents prompted the airline to impose operational restrictions.

Malaysia Airlines

IATA/ICAO code

MH/MAS

Year of foundation

1 May 1947

Managing Director

Ismail

Expand