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MAB pursues fuel-efficient aircraft

14 Sep 2015 by Clement Huang

Just days after commencing operations as Malaysia Airlines Berhad (MAB), the airline has signed a long-term lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation for four A350-900s. 

The deal also includes a lease option for two additional A350-900s and two A330-900neo aircraft. 

Given that both the A350-900 and A330-900neo offer excellent fuel efficiency, the lease makes financial sense for MAB as it seeks to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

The A350’s fuel-saving capabilities are well documented, with Airbus stating that the -900 model will see a 30 per cent decrease in block fuel per seat, and offer 25 per cent better cash operating cost than the B777-200ER.

It appears likely that the A350-900 will lead to the gradual retirement of the B777-200ER, given their capacity similarities. Furthermore, the superior range offered by the A350 will allow it to operate long-haul routes with greater efficiency.

Meanwhile, the A330-900neo will be powered by the modern Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engine, and come with winglets, longer wingspan and new engine pylons. These enhancements, according to Airbus, will reduce overall fuel burn by 14 per cent per seat.

MAB currently operates a fleet of 15 A330-300 aircraft, two of which are leased from Air Lease Corporation. Should the Oneworld carrier decide to take up the option for the A330-900neo, the new aircraft is likely to replace the two A330-300 that MAB currently has on lease. 

For more information, visit malaysiaairlines.com

Clement Huang

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