Malaysia Aviation Group is actively working to expand its presence in China, aiming to become one of the world's top 10 airlines by 2030. The airline is considering purchasing Chinese-made aircraft, including the COMAC C919 and C929 models, to support its growth strategy, according to group executives. The group currently operates 52 weekly flights in China, with plans to increase services to 60 flights per week following the resumption of the Kuala Lumpur-Chengdu route in January 2026. The airline also highlighted ongoing discussions with COMAC regarding potential aircraft acquisitions to enhance its fleet as part of its focus on international markets.
Malaysia Airlines' Group Managing Director, Izham Ismail, emphasized the significance of the Chinese market, noting that capacity rebuilds post-COVID have reached about 70% of pre-pandemic levels. He expressed optimism about further network expansion, particularly in secondary Chinese cities. The airline's strategic goal includes contributing to China’s economic growth and integrating itself into China’s evolving aviation sector, with a focus on the domestic and international market potentials.
Aircraft Development and Market Outlook
Since its first commercial flight in 2016, the COMAC C919 has delivered over 160 aircraft, operating more than 15,200 flights and transporting over 2.1 million passengers. The C929, currently under development, is expected to enter service by 2031, where it might be a suitable option for Malaysia Airlines. The airline recognizes the strong competitiveness of COMAC aircraft, despite some regulatory hurdles. Meanwhile, the C919 continues to expand its operational reach, with China Eastern Airlines operating more than 2.1 million passenger trips since May 2023.
"We hope to be part of China's successful economic journey and contribute to the Chinese market’s growth," said Izham Ismail.
With ambitions to secure a top-five position in Asia-Pacific and a top-10 ranking globally, Malaysia Airlines believes service quality, rather than size alone, defines its future success. The airline's focus remains on leveraging China's expanding market and its domestic manufacturing capabilities, particularly with the ongoing evaluation of COMAC's aircraft offerings.
