Boeing and Malaysia Airlines recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for 16 airplanes, including eight 787-9 Dreamliners, converting an existing Malaysia Airlines order of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, and purchase rights for eight 737 MAX 8s.
The MOU also includes Boeing’s General Fleet Care service for the maintenance of the airline’s current and future Boeing aircraft.
Currently, Malaysia Airlines operates more than 50 next-generation Boeing 737’s with an additional 25 737’s on order, 10 of which will be new 737 MAX 10’s.
“New widebody aircraft are a key to making Malaysia Airlines a premium airline offering a five-star product again,” Peter Bellew, CEO and managing director of Malaysia Airlines, said. “The extraordinary range of the 787-9 gives an ability to operate to any point in Europe and some USA destinations in the future from Kuala Lumpur.”
The signing ceremony included attendance from Dato’ Sri Mustapa bin Mohamed, Malaysian Minister of International Trade and Industry, and Malaysian Prime Minister Sri Muhammad Najib Bin Tun Abdul Razak, along with officials from Malaysia Airlines and Boeing.
The 787 uses 25 percent less fuel and produces approximately 25 percent fewer emissions compared to previous models.
According to Boeing, the 737 MAX 10 is the most-profitable single-aisle airplane and offer the lowest seat costs ever.
“Boeing offers the very best widebody and single aisle airplanes in the world and we are delighted Malaysia Airlines continues to put its trust and confidence in Boeing with this MOU for 16 Boeing airplanes,” Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Kevin McAllister said. “The 787 and the 737 MAX will provide Malaysia Airlines with unmatched fuel efficiency, economics, and a superior passenger experience as they continue to grow their business across Southeast Asia and beyond.”