Malaysia Airlines has officially received its first Boeing 737-8 narrowbody aircraft. The aircraft arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport earlier this week after a flight of more than 21 hours.
The event was marked by an official welcoming reception attended by YB Loke Siew Fook, Malaysia’s Minister of Transport, and other distinguished guests.
The premiere of the new 737-8 ‘Timeless Hospitality’ film, as well as a special performance by the Sri Dasmesh Pipe Band led by the airline’s pilot, Second Officer Tripert Singh, were among the reception guests.
First of 25 Boeing 737-8 aircraft
With the introduction of the new 737-8 aircraft, Malaysia Airlines has entered a new era.
The plane is the first of 25 new Boeing 737-8 planes delivered to Malaysia Airlines Berhad by lessor Air Lease Corporation.
This new Boeing 737-8, powered by CFM LEAP 1B-27 engines, becomes Malaysia Airlines’ first 737-8 addition to the fleet.
Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin, Group Chairman of Malaysia Airlines Group, articulates the significance of the Boeing 737-8 beyond simply replacing ageing aircraft. It serves as a meaningful link between the airline’s past and the present.
This aircraft, which is aligned with the Long-Term Business Plan 2.0 goals, is a testament to Malaysia Airlines’ vision of becoming Asia’s leading travel and aviation services group.
In-Flight Entertainment
The Boeing 737-8 features cutting-edge wireless in-flight entertainment, heralding a paradigm shift for passengers.
Seating Configuration
The new 737-8 is configured similarly to the Boeing 737-800 NG, with 12 seats in Business Class and 162 seats in Economy Class.
In-flight Connectivity
The introduction of high-quality internet connectivity is a game-changer in Malaysia Airlines’ overall connectivity strategy.
MAG incorporates this feature into its narrowbody fleet for the first time, allowing passengers to stay connected throughout their journey.
Revolutionizing Ground Operations
AeroDarat, MAG’s ground handling division, demonstrates its commitment to innovation by implementing cutting-edge ground operation technology.
The use of the Mototok Spacer 8600NG for electrical towing of the 737-8 represents a step towards sustainability.
MAG is the first organisation in Asia and the second in the world to use this particular electrical pushback model, demonstrating a commitment to reducing emissions from the ground up.
Fleet Modernization
MAG is currently refurbishing 39 of its 47 B737-800 NG aircraft as part of its fleet modernization plans, with completion scheduled for early 2024.
Furthermore, the recent acquisition of an A350-900 aircraft and the upcoming delivery of 20 Airbus 330neo aircraft in September 2024 demonstrate MAG’s commitment to fleet enhancement.
MAG’s total fleet size of 102 aircraft includes subsidiaries such as Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, MASwings, and MASkargo.
About Malaysia Airlines
Malaysia Airlines is the country’s national carrier, providing the most convenient way to travel to, from, and within Malaysia.
The airline transports up to 40,000 passengers per day on memorable journeys inspired by Malaysia’s diverse wealth.
Malaysia Airlines personifies Malaysia’s incredible diversity, capturing its rich traditions, cultures, and cuisines through its inimitable Malaysian Hospitality at all customer touch points.
Malaysia Airlines Berhad has owned and operated the airline since September 2015. It is a subsidiary of the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), a global aviation conglomerate comprised of various aviation business portfolios aimed at meeting Malaysian air travel needs.
Malaysia Airlines, through an alliance with oneworld®, provides superior connectivity with seamless journeys to 1,000 destinations in 150+ countries and access to over 650 airport lounges worldwide.