To replace its ageing fleet of older generation Airbus A330s and A380s, Malaysia Airlines recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to acquire twenty Airbus A330neo jets. This order of A330-900 will consist of 10 direct orders and 10 leased from Avolon.
The announcement was made at a Kuala Lumpur event witnessed by Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), Airbus, Rolls Royce, and Avolon. Rolls Royce is the manufacturer of the A330-900 engines, the RR Trent 7000.
In a statement from Airbus, Izham Ismail said: “The acquisition of the A330neo is a natural transition from our current A330ceo fleet. The A330neo will not only provide fleet modernisation and enhanced operational efficiency but will also meet environmental targets through reduced fuel burn per seat, while keeping passenger safety and comfort at its core. This is a significant milestone as MAG moves towards successfully executing our Long-Term Business Plan 2.0 to position itself as a leading aviation services Group within the region.”
Where will Malaysia Airlines fly the A330neo?
Malaysia Airlines is looking to operate the A330neo within its network in Asia, the Pacific, and the Middle East. It is looking to configure the aircraft with a dual-class layout that can sit around 300 passengers. Currently, the airline operates six A330-200s, fifteen A330-300s, and three A330Fs. The new A330neos will also cover the six A380s currently on sale.
Combined with the Airbus A350-900, which is currently active, Malaysia Airlines will be operating with a leaner and more efficient fleet.
The A330-900neo is the new generation version of the A330. Incorporating the latest generation engines, a new wing and a range of aerodynamic innovations, the aircraft offers a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The A330-900 is capable of flying 7,200nm / 13,300km non-stop. The aircraft will allow Malaysia Airlines to also fly more efficiently to farther destinations with high passenger volume.
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