KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 — Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of Malaysia Airlines, has confirmed an order for 20 additional Airbus A330neo aircraft as part of its long-term fleet renewal strategy — a move that will see the national carrier become one of the largest operators of the widebody aircraft type in the Asia-Pacific.
The latest order which was placed in a direct deal with Airbus is in addition to MAG’s inaugural 2022 commitment for 20 A330neos, comprising 10 purchased outright and 10 leased from Avolon. The total commitment of the group rises to 40 aircraft with the new deal. Deliveries of the second batch will take place between 2029 and 2031.
MAG Group Managing Director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail said the acquisition is part of the airline’s long-term network and growth development plan and that the A330neo is the ideal aircraft to serve both regional and long-haul routes. He said the aircraft offers a combination of operational efficiency, extended range, and enhanced passenger comfort.
“The A330neo continues to deliver the right balance of efficiency and performance to support our evolving network and premium product offerings,” he said. “This additional order reflects our strategic intent to build a future-ready fleet that supports sustainable growth while enhancing the overall passenger experience.”
The aircraft will also feature the latest cabin innovations, including an all-suite Business Class with sliding privacy doors, full-flat beds, and direct aisle access. All classes will offer sophisticated interiors, next-generation seats, and state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment systems — reinforcing Malaysia Airlines’ position as a premium full-service carrier.
Malaysia Airlines’ larger widebody fleet will witness the airline strengthen its connectivity on its core markets in ASEAN, China, India, and Australasia — markets that remain at the centre of the airline’s growth strategy with the recovery in travel demand.
Airbus Commercial Aircraft Executive Vice President of Sales Benoît de Saint-Exupéry greeted the repeat order, characterizing it as a strong endorsement of the A330neo.
We are privileged to further enhance our partnership with Malaysia Aviation Group. This repeat order is proof of the popularity of the A330neo among leading global operators and shows its unrivalled fuel efficiency and passenger appeal,” he continued.
To date, four A330neo aircraft have been delivered to MAG, and are already in service on selected routes to Auckland, Melbourne, and Bali. A further six are scheduled for delivery by the end of this year, with the remainder of the initial order being delivered progressively until 2028.
The A330neo is a key element of MAG’s wider modernisation programme, aimed at ensuring the group remains competitive in one of the fastest-growing air travel markets in the world.
