KUALA LUMPUR (March 21): Malaysia Airlines’ parent Malaysia Aviation Group Bhd (MAG) is acquiring another 30 new Boeing aircraft for the second stage of its fleet renewal strategy.

The new order includes 18 Boeing 737-8 and 12 Boeing 737-10 aircraft, powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines, with options for 30 more 737 aircraft.

In early February, The Edge reported that MAG had finalised an order for at least 25 narrow-body aircraft, following a request for proposal issued last year.

In a statement on Friday, MAG said the 737-10 aircraft will be the first narrow-body aircraft in its fleet to feature lie-flat Business Class seats for regional routes.

As part of the fleet upgrade, MAG will phase out older Boeing 737-800 aircraft, and aims to have a modernised fleet of 55 Boeing 737-8 and 737-10 by 2030.

A commemorative ceremony to mark the new order was held in Putrajaya, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in attendance. 

“The Boeing 737 has been a cornerstone of our fleet since 1969, with the introduction of the first 737-100 during the Malaysia-Singapore Airlines era. It has since played a vital role in supporting the growth of our national airline. The selection of the 737-8 and 737-10 reflects a careful evaluation of our long-term growth strategy, ensuring we have the right aircraft to meet evolving market demands,” MAG group managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail said in the statement.

He added that the next-generation aircraft offer greater fuel efficiency, extended range, and enhanced passenger comfort.

“This investment represents a bold step in securing MAG’s future, enhancing our ability to respond to market opportunities, drive greater value across our operations, and support the broader aviation ecosystem. It also enables us to future-proof our fleet, ensuring we remain competitive, adaptable, and well positioned for sustainable growth,” Izham added.

MAG had to cut 18% of its network capacity, or cancel 6,300 flights, in the fourth quarter of 2024, partly due to aircraft delivery delays.

MAG has an existing order for 25 Boeing 737-8 aircraft through a long-term lease with Air Lease Corporation, with 11 already delivered and the rest scheduled for delivery by 2027.

The group currently operates a fleet of 113 aircraft system-wide, including 42 Boeing 737-800s under Malaysia Airlines and five under Firefly.

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