21-3-2025 (KUALA LUMPUR) Malaysia’s flag carrier has embarked on an ambitious aircraft acquisition programme, with firm orders for 30 next-generation Boeing aircraft and provisions for doubling that number in future procurement phases.
The deal, unveiled during a formal document exchange ceremony with Boeing, encompasses 18 737-8 and 12 737-10 variants, all featuring state-of-the-art CFM International LEAP-18 powerplants. The carrier has already integrated eleven of these advanced aircraft into its operations.
Captain Datuk Izham Ismail, who heads the Malaysia Aviation Group, emphasised that this strategic fleet renewal comes in direct response to the operational challenges that beset the airline throughout the previous year. The carrier had grappled with maintenance hurdles and logistics bottlenecks stemming from its ageing fleet.
“Our timing in this procurement is absolutely crucial,” remarked Capt. Ismail at the signing event. “We’re determined to prevent a recurrence of last year’s difficulties, which underscored the critical importance of well-planned fleet modernisation.”
The remaining aircraft are slated for progressive delivery through 2027, marking a watershed moment in the airline’s modernisation journey.
