Airlines

The newly updated B737-800 NG aircraft of Malaysia Airlines is unveiled.

Malaysia Airlines unveiled its newly refreshed B737-800 NG aircraft, which boasts a new and premium cabin experience with truly unique features including new seats, innovative in-flight entertainment

Malaysia Airlines unveiled its newly refreshed B737-800 NG aircraft, which boasts a new and premium cabin experience with truly unique features including new seats, innovative in-flight entertainment – MH studio, and refurbished interior that pays homage to Malaysian identity from the moment they board the flight. The newly refreshed cabin is scheduled to take to the skies end of July 2022 and will be progressively rolled out to more domestic and regional destinations as more of the 38 refurbished aircraft are completed.

The new interior design reflects a forward-thinking step with a modern and luxurious cabin atmosphere that includes a vibrant and energizing color scheme that is distinctive to Malaysia Airlines’ character. The famous Malaysian and national carriers’ batik motif, which is well known internationally and has a profound representation of the rich Malaysian heritage integrated throughout the cabin—from the upholstery to the curtains—will be infused, drawing attention to the airline’s roots. The symbiotic, synergistic design facilitates a seamless transition between cabin classes.

The new seats have been ergonomically constructed from lightweight upholstery leather and intended to provide passengers improved comfort and enhanced functionality because they include built-in power outlets and holders for the passengers’ own personal devices. “It is becoming increasingly important that we do everything with sustainability in mind. The all-new features of our refreshed B737-800 NG fleet will reduce our carbon footprint from the reduction of the weight of each aircraft – with the much lighter seats, use of soft cabin dividers and moving away from seatback screens to offer innovative in-flight entertainment features allowing for wireless streaming on board at their convenience,” added Yin May.

Leaner seats, soft cabin dividers made of lightweight materials, and wireless in-flight entertainment all significantly contribute to the airline’s continued sustainability initiatives, which will reduce carbon emissions by 8% by reducing the fuel used by the aircraft per passenger. A new seating arrangement is also included in the updated cabin. It has 162 Economy Class seats with a 2-2 arrangement and 12 Business Class seats with a 3-3 configuration.

Airlines

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

Russia’s aviation sector, already strained by Western sanctions, faces another setback as nearly half of its Airbus A320neo family aircraft are grounded due to unresolved engine issues.

This development highlights the growing challenges for russia commercial aircraft in maintaining their fleets under the weight of global restrictions and limited access to spare parts.

Out of the 66 Airbus A320neo and A321neo jets in Russia, 34 are now out of service, according to the Kommersant business newspaper. These planes are powered by engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation.

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The engines are affected by a previously identified defect in the metal used for certain parts, prompting accelerated inspections and maintenance.

Sanctions have compounded the issue, blocking the supply of essential components from major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus. Without proper maintenance, experts warn that these aircraft may face decommissioning as early as 2026.

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Airlines like S7, which operates a significant portion of these grounded jets, plan to conserve the engines for future use during peak travel seasons. However, reports suggest that over 20 of S7’s Airbus planes have engines that have already reached the end of their operational lifespan. Recently, russia seeks assistance from kazakhstan’s airlines to bolster its domestic flights.

While some A320neo and A321neo planes in Russia are equipped with French-made LEAP engines, which are seen as less problematic, the challenges remain daunting.

The situation underscores the long-term impact of sanctions on Russia’s aviation sector and the increasing difficulties in keeping its modern fleets operational.