Malaysia Airlines will temporarily reduce its network up to the end of the year as it seeks to maintain operational resilience following a series of technical disruptions.
The move will involve a 20 per cent reduction of the airline group’s overall network, including the company’s subsidiaries Firefly and Amal.
The announcement came after the validity of the flag carrier’s operating certificate was reduced from three years to one year by Malaysia’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAM).
Malaysia Airlines will also have to send the regulator monthly reports regarding the company’s plan to resolve the issues.
The measures imposed by the CAAM come after a string of technical problems plaguing the airline in recent months, which led to numerous delays and cancellations, including three incidents in August alone.
Anthony Loke, Malaysia’s transport minister, said: “Before their certificate expires, they have to undergo another audit.
“Reducing the renewal period also ensures Malaysia Airlines will have to implement the necessary measures as outlined in the mitigation plan by CAAM.
“The whole idea is to make sure we have comprehensive oversight and more frequent audits.
“They must make monthly reports to CAAM on the progress of their mitigation plan.”
An investigation into the airline carried out in June revealed it was already facing problems with mechanical components and a lack of skilled workers to carry out aircraft maintenance.
Loke added: “Malaysia Airlines has also outlined a mitigation plan with an emphasis on ensuring aircraft safety to improve its reliability.
“Recruitment programmes will also be carried out aggressively by the airline.”
Izham Ismail, managing director of the airline’s parent company Malaysia Aviation Group, stated the issues were caused by supply chain constraints, manpower challenges and “other external factors” relating to the general landscape of global aviation post-Covid.
Delays in new aircraft deliveries are also said to be a contributing factor to the operational difficulties Malaysia Airlines are facing.
The carrier said measures are being taken to address the issue of spare parts and lack of skilled workers, and that affected passengers would be entitled to compensation – including full refunds.
