KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) plans to issue a request for proposal (RFP) for its second batch of 25 single-aisle planes in the second quarter of 2024 as the group reviews its network again due to global external changes.
The RFP was supposed to be issued in the first quarter.
Group managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail said the RFP announcement would be made in due time and did not disclose the aircraft type.
"We have to delay it slightly because of some network realignment. Before you order the planes you need to know your future plans; where do you want to fly in the next 10 to 15 years, what are the markets of interest, and how is your network flow going to happen.
"Only when you're settled with your network then can you order the planes, as you know the aircraft type (that are needed to fly to certain destinations).
"We have our network plans but are doing some realignment because we see the world has slightly changed and we feel that our network has to change," he said.
The first batch of single-aisle aircraft that MAG ordered was the Boeing B737 MAX 8. This year, it expects to receive at least nine of the planes.
The second batch will be 25 narrowbody planes that make up the group's narrowbody fleet of 50.
Izham said MAG's future network would determine the aircraft type.
On the delayed deliveries of B737 MAX 8, he said he is disappointed but believes that the American plane manufacturer will be able to settle its issues.
"Boeing has built aeroplanes for over 100 years. They know what to do."
Izham also said MAG expects to receive the first Airbus A330neo (new engine option) it ordered in 2022 in the third quarter of this year and three A350s for the its widebody fleet.
He said the 20 A330neo planes are replacements while MAG has an option for another 20 widebody planes for future expansion.
"We'll make both announcements (on narrowbody and widebody aircraft plans) together," he added.