Malaysia Airlines, the national flag carrier of Malaysia, received its first Airbus A330neo on November 29, 2024, marking a significant step in its fleet modernization strategy.
The aircraft, an A330-941, is the first of 20 to be leased from Avolon, a leading global aviation finance company. The delivery took place at Airbus’ delivery center in Toulouse, France.
The delivery flight, MH-5039, departed from Toulouse at 8:52 PM a.m. local time on on Thursday and touched down at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) at 4:52 p.m. local time, the following day.
Prior to touchdown, a Royal Malaysian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter jet escorted the first A330neo, with both aircraft executing a fly-by over the aerodrome. After landing, 9M-MNG was warmly welcomed with a water cannon salute, marking a momentous era for the airline.
This A330neo is configured with a two-class layout featuring 297 seats: 28 business class suites and 269 economy class seats. Passenger amenities include larger overhead bins, improved air quality, updated in-flight entertainment, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
The aircraft will be deployed on routes throughout Asia and the Pacific, with some flights extending to the Middle East. Malaysia Airlines currently operates a fleet of 74 aircraft, a mix of narrowbody and widebody planes.
Avolon’s CEO, Andy Cronin, highlighted the unique collaboration between Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and Avolon in securing this deal.
“We are proud to have partnered with MAG on a complex and unique transaction. It was made possible due to the deep and long-standing relationships Avolon has with Airbus and Rolls-Royce, all collaborating to provide the optimal solution for MAG with the A330neo,” Mr. Cronin said.
The deal, originally announced in August 2022, involves both leasing from Avolon’s existing order book and a sale-and-leaseback agreement with Malaysia Aviation Group.
The A330neo, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, offers an increased range exceeding 13,300 kilometers and boasts a claimed 25% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to its predecessor, the A330ceo.
Airbus has delivered over 140 A330neo aircraft globally, positioning the A330neo as a leading aircraft in its category. Avolon itself has a significant portfolio of A330neos, both delivered and on order.
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