Kuala Lumpur: European aircraft manufacturer Airbus sees significant potential for the A220 in Malaysia, as it describes the plane as the perfect feeder aircraft on regional services. Airbus Asia-Pacific president Anand Stanley noted ongoing discussions with local airline operators about the A220’s integration into their fleets.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Stanley highlighted Malaysia’s strategic position as a connector between China, India, and ASEAN countries, emphasizing the A220’s capability to efficiently serve long-range and regional routes. The aircraft is seen as a vital component for establishing feeder networks within Malaysia to support longer regional and intercontinental routes.
Stanley expressed optimism about the A220’s prospects in Malaysia, despite being unable to provide specific timelines for its introduction. He mentioned that airlines such as Korean Air, Qantas Airways, and Air Niugini are currently operating the A220, praising the aircraft for its advanced technology, efficiency in carbon emissions, and passenger comfort.
Currently, nearly 150 Airbus commercial aircraft are operational in Malaysia, with around 400 orders for future delivery. AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines are major customers, operating fleets that include the A320 Family, A330, and A350 aircraft. Malaysia ranks as the third-largest market for Airbus in the Asia-Pacific region, following China and India, underscoring its strategic importance.
Airbus’s newly established office in Malaysia will function as a hub for 170 employees, focusing on customer services for 60 airline companies and about 1,000 aircraft globally. This includes flight hour services and component support for A330 and A350 widebody fleets.
At the upcoming 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) from May 20-24, Airbus plans to showcase a static display of A400Ms from the German Luftwaffe and the Royal Malaysian Air Force, along with the ACH160 corporate helicopter. The exhibition will also feature scale models of various Airbus aircraft and aerospace systems.