Kuala lumpur: No Malaysia Airlines Bhd’s (MAS) aircraft are currently grounded due to technical problems, stated Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah. He clarified that aircraft not in service are undergoing periodic maintenance in line with safety requirements and aviation industry standards.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) operates as a commercial entity, wherein all operational decisions, such as aircraft maintenance and repair, are strategic corporate choices based on the company’s operational needs. Consequently, the costs associated with repair and maintenance are entirely borne by MAG as part of its operating expenses. The Ministry of Transport does not cover any related expenses, he confirmed during a session in the Dewan Rakyat.

The Deputy Minister was responding to a query from Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari (PH-Sungai Petani) regarding the number of MAS aircraft not in service due to faults and the financial responsibilities of the ministry in such cases.

Additionally, he highlighted that the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) has recognized a total of 4,113 certified aircraft engineers. Among them, 2,318 engineers possess category B1 (mechanical) licenses, 879 hold category B2 (avionics) licenses, 51 have both B1 and B2 licenses, and 865 hold category A (technician) licenses.