Malaysia Airlines’ air operator certificate cut to 1 year after technical issues

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s civil aviation regulator has cut the duration of Malaysia Airlines’ air operator certificate from three years to one, following a probe into technical issues faced by the state carrier, the transport minister said on Wednesday (Aug 28).
The airline’s parent, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), had said on Saturday it plans to temporarily reduce its flights and routes across its carriers until December this year, after service disruptions earlier this month.
Following the investigation by Malaysia’s Civil Aviation Authority, Malaysia Airlines has prepared a mitigation plan that will include an aggressive labour recruitment programme and a larger focus on safety and maintenance, Minister of Transport Anthony Loke said.
“In order to ensure compliance with the mitigation plan, Malaysia Airlines has been directed to present a monthly report on the status of the plan,” Loke told a press conference.
MAG, which also operates carrier Firefly and Muslim pilgrimage service provider Amal, has said it would take immediate steps to address significant issues that had led to operational difficulties including supply chain, technical and manpower constraints and other post-pandemic challenges.
It also said it had been affected by delayed deliveries of new aircraft, leading to fewer planes being available for operations.