Malaysia Airlines to decide on A350 replacement plans by year-end
Dhaka: Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) expects to finalize a decision by year-end on its future widebody fleet strategy, including replacement plans for Malaysia Airlines' Airbus A350 fleet.
MAG President and Group Chief Executive Officer Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar said the assessment remains ongoing as the group evaluates its long-term fleet requirements, with the review expected to conclude in the fourth quarter of this year.
He noted that the group is still assessing replacement options for the A350 fleet and has not yet reached a final decision on the matter.
MAG's new aircraft delivery program remains on track, with the group expecting to receive 11 aircraft this year, comprising Boeing 737 MAX 8 and Airbus A330neo jets.
Nasaruddin said MAG has already taken delivery of six aircraft so far this year, including two A330neos and four 737 MAX 8s. He added that there has been no delay on MAG's side, nor any indication of delays from either Airbus or Boeing.
In August 2022, MAG signed an agreement with Airbus for 20 A330neo aircraft, with options for 20 additional jets as part of its long-haul fleet renewal program. In July 2025, the group exercised its option for the additional 20 units, with deliveries scheduled between 2029 and 2031.
While MAG continues to assess its passenger widebody fleet requirements, Nasaruddin said the group has no plans to purchase new freighter aircraft for MASkargo, the cargo arm of Malaysia Airlines.
He said passenger demand, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, remains steady, while cargo demand is also stable. He added that cargo will need to be a focus area for the group moving forward.
Nasaruddin confirmed there are currently no plans to replace MASkargo's Airbus A330 cargo fleet, noting that the cargo unit continues to strengthen its business through partnerships with Qatar Airways Cargo and IAG Cargo.
Asked whether MAG would consider the Airbus A350F, the manufacturer's next-generation widebody freighter, Nasaruddin said it is not currently part of the group's plans.
