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KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 15): Malaysia Aviation Group Bhd (MAG), the parent company of Malaysia Airlines Bhd, said delivery of its first of 20 Airbus A330neo wide-body aircraft has been delayed for a second time due to findings identified by the European aircraft maker during the flight line stage.
The aircraft was originally scheduled for delivery in September, but was rescheduled to this month due to failure of seat tests.
It is now expected to arrive by late November.
As a result of this delay, MAG said it regrets to inform that Malaysia Airlines’ planned inaugural A330neo flight to Melbourne on Nov 25, along with subsequent flights scheduled with the A330neo, will be impacted.
"The airline will revert to operating the (existing fleet of) A330-300 for these services, with no changes to the flight schedule," it said in a statement on Tuesday.
MAG also said it is working closely with Airbus and Ireland's aircraft leasing company Avolon Holdings Ltd to secure a new delivery timeline and expedite the aircraft’s entry into service. Malaysia Airlines still expects to receive five A330neos by the first quarter of 2025.
On its Boeing 737-8 (formerly known as the 737 MAX 8) aircraft delivery, MAG is in communication with Boeing and its lessor AirLease Corp, while closely monitoring the evolving situation.
Malaysia Airlines 'deeply disappointed' with Airbus
MAG group managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail expressed his disappointment with the aircraft delivery delays by Airbus.
“We are deeply disappointed by the aircraft delivery delays by Airbus, compounded by the ongoing setbacks of our new Boeing 737-8 jet deliveries. These delays are significantly disrupting our fleet modernisation plans and growth requirements. As we take decisive steps toward a stronger 2025, having the necessary assets in place is crucial to meet our growth targets, optimise our network and continue delivering enhanced services to our customers," he said.
"MAG 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," he added.
On Friday, US planemaker Boeing reportedly said it will cut 10% of its workforce, or about 17,000 people, as the company’s losses mount and would delay the deliveries of its 737, 777 and 767 jets.
Four of MAG's 25 737-8s have been delivered so far. The airline group was expecting another nine 737-8s to be delivered this year.
The A330neos were supposed to be Malaysia Airlines' premium product offering. The national carrier has placed orders for 20 A330neos, which will gradually replace its existing A330-200 and A330-300 fleet in stages until 2028.