Airlines adjust their networks as a matter of course, so while Malaysia Airlines has recently cut some of its services, last week, the full-service carrier launched its inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur to Da Nang in Vietnam. The new route will operate daily, although the flight times differ depending on the day.
A new connection between Malaysia and Vietnam
Last Tuesday, Malaysia Airlines celebrated the successful launch of its new service to Da Nang, the fourth-largest city in Vietnam and one of the nation’s most important port cities.
Da Nang is the commercial and educational center of Central Vietnam. It is within 62 miles of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Imperial City of Hue and the Old Town of Hoi An. Malaysia Airlines will be hoping the daily flights and choice of departure times will entice customers to explore the new destination.
Yesterday, flight MH748 departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) at 12:10 and, after a 2:19-hour flight, arrived at Da Nang International Airport (DAD) at 13:28. The service was operated with a 2012 Boeing 737-800, registration 9M-MLO and MSN 39325, that departed DAD at 14:39 and landed in Kuala Lumpur at 17:55.
On Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, flight MH748 departs Kuala Lumpur at 12:00, and the return leaves Da Nang at 14:40. Passengers wanting to catch an earlier flight can leave KUL at 08:35 on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with flight MH749 leaving Da Nang International at 11:25.
A 90% load factor is an excellent start
Speaking at the launch, Malaysia Airlines Chief Executive Officer Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi said the airline is delighted to have launched its inaugural flight to Da Nang, achieving an impressive load factor of 90%. He noted that achievement reflects the strong demand for travel to the beautiful city of Da Nang and is another significant step toward being the carrier of choice for travelers.
“This new service marks our third destination to Vietnam, not only enhancing connectivity but also opening doors for our passengers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Da Nang, establishing the airline as the gateway to Asia and beyond.”
Photo: Sumit Singh | Simple Flying
Malaysia Airlines has a well-balanced fleet
According to data from ch-aviation, Malaysia Airlines has a fleet of 92 aircraft, which includes 15 turboprops operating on a wet lease from MASwings. The jet fleet includes six Airbus A330-200s, three A330-200F freighters, 15 A330-300s, seven A350-900s, four Boeing 737 MAX 8s and 42 737-800s. The wet lease aircraft are nine ATR 72-500s and six De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otters.
Photo: alphonsusjimos | Shutterstock
To commemorate the event, passengers departing Kuala Lumpur were gifted limited-edition postcards, curated in collaboration with photographer Acacia Diana. The postcards showcased stunning artistry that captured the beautiful essence of Da Nang, and on their arrival, passengers were greeted with another colorful event.
As a full-service carrier, passengers on the flight enjoyed a 20-kilogram (44 pounds) baggage allowance, on-demand inflight entertainment, complimentary WiFi across all cabins and a wide range of meals inspired by iconic Malaysian flavors. With twice-daily flights from London to Kuala Lumpur and additional routes to more than 50 destinations in more than 20 countries, Malaysian airlines provides an exceptional gateway to Asia.