Qualampur: Malaysia Airlines will resume flights to Chengdu in January 2026 under Malaysia Airlines, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), after their seventh destination, nine -year break in China.
MAG Managing Director Datuk Captain Izam Ismail said that the step is part of the group’s strategy to streamlin the operation and expand its network in line with the increasing regional demand.
He said, “Malaysia Airlines and Jugnu will strengthen their presence in major markets in the next months,” he said at a press conference in Matta Fair 2025 today.
For Malaysia Airlines, it includes Chengdu, he said that the average load factor for its China routes reached 81% in the first half of 2025.
“With the support of the mutual visa-free system between Malaysia and China, this expansion is to capture us the growing demand in one of the world’s most dynamic travel markets.”
Meanwhile, MAG’s low -cost subsidiary Flyphirefly SDN BHD will expand its network with the launch of new jet services starting in November from SDN BHD Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Krabi (Thailand), Siem Reap (Cambodia) and Sebu (The Philippines).
In addition, Izam said that Malaysia Airlines will add services to Australia, New Zealand, China, India, Maldives and Bangladesh, starting from October, while fire will increase regional and domestic connectivity, including Singapore, Kota Kinbalu, Kuching, Penang and Johor Bahru.
To support this development, he said, Mag’s fleet strategy is moving forward in the forefront.
“We have already taken delivery of six A330neos and 14 Boeing 737-8S, are part of our fleet modernization program. These aircraft not only strengthen our competition, but also provide more consistent and comfortable experience for our customers.”
Isam said that Malaysia Airlines has an ambition to operate the modern mainline fleet of 116 aircraft with an average age of just seven years (below today) by 2035.
“It will support a group network spread to the 7th fleet, with extended services of firefly, Asia, Middle East, Europe and beyond.”
He said that the scale would install Malaysia Airlines as one of the leading premium carriers in the region, which has the ability to serve high-mang regional routes and major global corridors.
“With a balanced mixture of narrow and widebody aircraft, Malaysia Airlines will have flexibility to catch the regional and long -term growth in the markets, to ensure that we stay flexible in changes in market conditions.”
Together, he said, these investments are the foundation stone for the position of Malaysia Airlines among the top 10 global carriers in the world by 2030.
At the same time, the role of MAG is to ensure that this growth is both commercially sustainable and alliance with national development.
Izam said, “Every step should strengthen our financial flexibility, expand Malaysia’s connectivity, support tourism and trade, and take our country’s presence proudly on the global platform.”
Looking forward, he admitted that the aviation industry would continue to face pressure and uncertainties.
However, he said that the strong foundation of the group, expansion of network, and enhanced products ensure that the MAG is flexible, relevant and ready to give constant price for its customers, people and nation.
The MAG three -day Matta Fair is returning as the official airline partner and premiere sponsor of 2025, which is opened today, expanding its appearance through a dedicated MAG Arena Mandap.
The arena, which featured more than 70 booths, will demonstrate the network and cabin products of Malaysia Airlines and Jugnu, including the group’s latest digital innovations include artificial intelligence-powered hospitality equipment. It also includes special promotion for visitors for the meat-end-grit session and the fair along with sports personalities.
