Malaysia Airlines in talks to offload A380s

LONDON – according to Bangkok post Malaysia Airlines is in talks with carriers in China and Southeast Asia about offloading its six Airbus A380 jets because the giant double-deckers are no longer needed, chief executive officer Peter Bellew said.
The company is also negotiating with Airbus to add 90 more seats to each of the superjumbos to make them more marketable while retaining the ability to operate the aircraft in a two or three class configuration, Mr Bellew, who took over on July 1, said in an interview on Friday.

If direct buyers are not found Malaysia is prepared to offer the planes for lease with access to its A380 simulator, or complete with pilots and cabin crew, he said. There were a number of airlines in the region “keen to dip their toe in the water”. (continues below)

An Airbus A380 operated by Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Air no longer wants the A380s as it focuses more on Asian routes and prepares to take delivery of six smaller Airbus A350s, which will replace the superjumbos on routes such as Kuala Lumpur-London.

Mr Bellew said the carrier is looking at beefing up its fleet with three of four used Airbus A330s with engines from Pratt & Whitney, like the 18 already in operation.

Airbus’s A321 model, which former CEO Christoph Mueller had said the carrier might buy, is now less likely to join the fleet, Mr Bellew said. Malaysia placed an order for 25 737 Max 8 jets in July for delivery from 2019 and has options including the Max 9 model that could perform most longer flights.

The airline is in talks about 15 new routes to China, Japan and South Korea as the new CEO carries forward Mueller’s Asia-focused strategy. Of those the most attractive three to six are likely to go ahead, with an announcement due as early as next month.

Passenger confidence in Malaysia Air, now fully owned by sovereign wealth fund Khazanah Nasional Bhd, collapsed two years ago after Flight MH370 bound for Beijing vanished on March 8, 2014 and another of its planes was shot down over Ukraine four months later.

Mr Bellew said perceptions of the company have now greatly improved both in Malaysia and the crucial Chinese market, which is again one of the strongest for the airline. Demand levels from Australia and New Zealand are less stable because of overcapacity, he said.

Malaysia Air said earlier that cost cuts initiated by Mr Bellew’s predecessor should help deliver a loss this year that is 15 to 20% lower than anticipated, and that it remains on track to post a profit in 2018.

Source : Bangkok post

These are the Top 10 best US airlines of 2024

In an era where air travel plays an integral role in connecting people and places, the quality of airline service can significantly impact travelers’ experiences.

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of aviation, insights into the performance and reliability of different carriers become invaluable. Enter WalletHub’s comprehensive analysis, offering a glimpse into the 10 best US airlines of 2024. Join us as we embark on a journey through the clouds, exploring the top performers.

Best airlines of 2024

Alaska Airlines (68.07 out of 100): Anchoring the list is Alaska Airlines, celebrated for its consistency and customer satisfaction. With a score of 68.07, Alaska Airlines sets the standard for excellence in the skies.
SkyWest Airlines (65.96): Following closely behind is SkyWest Airlines, recognized for its operational prowess and reliability. With a score of 65.96, SkyWest secures its position among the elite.
Spirit Airlines (65.69): Surging into third place is Spirit Airlines, renowned for its affordability and expansive route network. Despite its low-cost model, Spirit Airlines earns acclaim with a score of 65.69.
Delta Air Lines (61.56): A stalwart of the industry, Delta Air Lines maintains its reputation for superior service and efficiency. With a score of 61.56, Delta continues to soar above the competition.
United Airlines (51.96): United Airlines occupies the middle ground, offering a balance of convenience and comfort to travelers. With a score of 51.96, United remains a dependable choice for domestic and international flights.
JetBlue Airways (51.6): JetBlue Airways, known for its focus on customer experience and amenities, secures its place in the top 10 with a score of 51.6.
Hawaiian Airlines (48.3): Transporting passengers, Hawaiian Airlines earns accolades for its hospitality and island-inspired service. With a score of 48.3, Hawaiian Airlines embodies the spirit of aloha.
American Airlines (46.52): Despite facing challenges, American Airlines maintains its presence among the top performers with a score of 46.52, showcasing resilience in the competitive aviation landscape.
Frontier Airlines (43.57): Frontier Airlines offers budget-conscious travelers a gateway to the skies with its affordable fares and diverse destinations. With a score of 43.57, Frontier Airlines secures its place in the top 10.
Southwest Airlines (36.03): Rounding out the list is Southwest Airlines, renowned for its no-frills approach and extensive route network. With a score of 36.03, Southwest Airlines remains a popular choice for travelers seeking simplicity and value.