KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airlines and Japan Airlines are finally set to launch their Covid-19-delayed joint business partnership on July 25, cooperating commercially on flights between the two countries.
The airlines said the partnership would help to enhance convenience between Japan and Malaysia and allow customers to benefit from more flight choices.
"With Malaysia Airlines resuming flights to Japan starting July, both airlines combined will offer four weekly services between Kuala Lumpur to Tokyo Narita in July and August," they said in a joint statement today.
"This initiative will enable both Malaysia and Japan airlines to enhance their capabilities, and leverage on each other's strengths," they added.
Malaysia Airlines group chief executive officer Captain Izham Ismail said the joint business was finally taking off after a few months of delay due to travel restrictions between both countries.
"We look forward to the bilateral discussions between the governments of Malaysia and Japan to establish a travel bubble between the two countries, which will ease restrictions for cross-border travel," said Izham in the statement.
Japan Airlines president Yuji Akasaka said while its expanded relationship was being launched during unprecedented times, it had allowed both Japan Airlines and Malaysia Airlines to ensure the highest standards of safety and hygiene were in place from the onset for their mutual customers' peace of mind.
"And with hospitality in mind, we are confident that customers will delight in the in-flight experience and enjoy convenient flight schedules and seamless services," Akasaka added.
Malaysia Airlines and Japan Airlines' shared best practices and responsibilities were in line with a sustainable business model in the long haul, the airlines said.
"With Japan Airlines's renowned precision in service and offerings, combined with Malaysia Airline signature Malaysian Hospitality, customers are promised the best travel experience.
"At the same time, both airlines are committed to uphold the highest standards in aircraft safety and hygiene procedures to protect their passengers and employees."
The carriers added that with the significant shift in consumer expectations on air travel post Covid-19, they had adjusted to the new norm with modifications to offerings on ground and onboard as well as processes and procedures from check-in, boarding and arrival.