“MH is Malaysian Hospitality”
Skytrax rating: 5 stars
Oneworld Alliance candidate
Operations
Globally
- About 85 destinations
South Africa
- Ex Johannesburg and Cape Town to Kuala Lumpur
General
Malaysian Airline System Berhad (Malaysia Airlines) is the nationalised flag carrier of Malaysia. It is one of only seven airlines in the world to be rated with 5 stars by rating agency Skytrax. The airline has more than 20 subsidiaries, most of which are 100% owned and two of which are regional airlines. Malaysia Airlines has experienced mixed financial results over the last decade, but has exceeded RM12bn in revenue every year for the last five years.
Malaysia Airlines provides flights to many international destinations and also one trans-Pacific flight to Los Angeles from Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysia Airlines tailfin showing the trademark swallow logo. The rest of the livery has changed over time.
Malaysia Airlines operates a fleet of about 100 aircraft. There are another 59 on order at the moment but most of them are being acquired as replacement units. The 6 Airbus A380s are not, however, replacements, and they will come into service in 2012. The 37 Boeing 737-400s will exit service in 2014, to be replaced by 39 Boeing 737-800s. The airline is therefore maintaining its strategy of using the Boeing 737 on a large scale, and generally operates far more Boeing aircraft than Airbus models, so the acquisition of the A380s (as opposed to Boeing 787s) is an interesting development in terms of the airline’s fleet management.
Malaysia Airlines has two frequent flyer programs:
- Grads – only for students
- Enrich
The airline offers three cabin classes:
- First Class – spacious
- Business Class – Recaro seats
- Economy Class – Skytrax World’s Best Economy Class in 2010
All the classes have electronic entertainment. Catering in First Class is opulent and includes an extensive menu of both Malaysian and Western style dishes (88 in total). Meals may be pre-ordered before the flight. In between meals passengers may order a sandwich or make use of the SKYSNAX service. 100% cotton pyjamas are supplied and the bathroom facilities are stocked with various toiletries such as cologne and body lotion.
Economy class also has its perks. For a little extra on the ticket price, you can choose where you want to be seated, and if you have specific dietary requirements you only need to inform the airline of them one day before your flight.
This kind of luxury is what one should expect from a 5-star international airline, so if creature comforts are more important to you than the ticket price then flying First Class on Malaysia Airlines is definitely an option. Malaysia Airlines has received more than 100 awards in the last ten years. Please contact us so that we can arrange your trip in a convenient and professional manner.
