Malaysia Airlines’ First Boeing 737 MAX Enters Service

Malaysia Airlines today commemorated the entry into service of its inaugural Boeing 737 MAX 8, which the flag carrier received just days ago. The sparkling new jet is the airline’s first aircraft delivery since 2018, marking a monumental milestone towards its fleet modernization and expansion plans.

A historic 21-hour and 45-minute flight

On November 13, the 737 (registration: 9M-MVA) embarked on its journey from Boeing’s Seattle Delivery Center. Piloted by Captain Mohd. Ezaddin Roslan, Captain Izahariman Ibrahim, and Captain Arian Syazwara Adenan, the aircraft made stops in Honolulu and Guam before arriving in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on November 16.

Photo: Malaysia Airlines

The flight lasted 21 hours and 45 minutes and was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute upon arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL). Following a reported three-month delay, the 737’s touchdown in KUL signified the airline’s much-anticipated stride toward enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency.

The arrival of 9M-MVA marks a pivotal moment in its comprehensive fleet modernization initiative to meet future network growth requirements, coming just weeks after the Malaysian flag carrier launched three new routes to India,

New aircraft, new livery, new experience

The 737 is painted in Malaysia Airlines’ signature flag livery – but with a twist. Featuring a new songket (traditional Malaysian handwoven fabric) motif logo on the tail, the airlines’ new fleet additions will offer more than an eye-catching sight.

Photo: Malaysia Airlines

Equipped with a cutting-edge wireless in-flight entertainment system, the 737 offers passengers an extensive array of options to relax and unwind onboard. Additionally, the availability of free, high-quality, in-flight internet connectivity to all classes will provide passengers with a way to stay connected throughout their flight.

Like Malaysia Airlines’ revamped Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, the 737 MAX 8 will maintain similar seating arrangements, featuring 12 seats in business class and 162 in economy class. Malaysia Aviation Group (parent company of Malaysia Airlines) Chair Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin remarked:

“The induction of our new Boeing 737-8 will allow us to enhance customer experience, improve operational and fuel efficiency, and meet our future network growth requirements to support our vision for the national carrier.”

Entry into service

Malaysia Airlines’ new 737 took to the skies with passengers onboard for the first time on November 20, operating a domestic flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu. On the morning of its maiden flight, Simple Flying attended the launch ceremony of the aircraft’s arrival.

Photo: Malaysia Airlines

There, Malaysia Aviation Group’s ground handling arm, AeroDarat, showcased its latest ground operation technology adoption: the Mototok Space 8600NG. The state-of-the-art towbar-less tug – the first of 12 units having arrived just last month – allows narrowbody aircraft to be tugged electrically, significantly minimizing ground emissions. Malaysia Airlines is said to be the first in Asia and second in the world to introduce this sustainable technology.

Photo: Malaysia Airlines

Under the umbrella of its operating lease with Air Lease Corporation (ALC), Malaysia Aviation Group has a robust order book, with 25 more 737 MAX 8 aircraft to be delivered progressively until 2026. The airline’s second Boeing 737 MAX 8 is set to arrive next week.

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