Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), parent of Malaysia Airlines, has doubled its Airbus A330-900neo order from 20 to 40 aircraft by exercising options for 20 additional wide-body jets. This builds on MAG's 2022 agreement, which included 10 purchased and 10 leased A330neos from Avolon. Four A330neos are already operating on routes like Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne, Auckland, and Bali.

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, MAG's Group Managing Director, emphasized the A330neo's role in delivering operational efficiency, range, and cabin comfort, aligning with MAG's network expansion and sustainability goals. 

The additional order supports MAG's vision for a modern, competitive fleet to enhance passenger value and strengthen its presence in key markets like ASEAN, China, India, and Australasia.Deliveries of the new batch are set to start in 2029 and continue through 2031.

 Announced during Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's Paris visit, the deal was hailed as "historic" by French President Emmanuel Macron, reinforcing EU-Asia aviation ties amid looming US tariff pressures.

Airbus celebrated the expanded commitment, with Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales, Commercial Aircraft, noting the A330neo's performance, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort as key factors in MAG's decision. The bolstered fleet is poised to solidify Malaysia Airlines' competitive edge in high-growth regions, supporting long-term strategic and sustainable growth.