Malaysia Airlines adds more flights to Australia, New Zealand and ASEAN

More destinations added in ASEAN

Subsidiary low-cost carrier Firefly, long based at Subang Airport near Kuala Lumpur, has begun operating from KLIA at the end of August. This allows seamless connections for long-haul passengers arriving from Australia, Europe, or Japan to reach regional leisure hubs such as Krabi in Thailand, Siem Reap in Cambodia or Cebu in the Philippines. The three destinations are Firefly latest additions.

Malaysia Airlines also sees ASEAN connectivity as a cornerstone of its growth. New routes to the Maldives, Danang, and Chiang Mai have proven especially popular with connecting passengers traveling from Europe, Australia, or New Zealand. “We are really strong in ensuring that connectivity is there for every passenger within the ASEAN region,” an airline spokesperson highlighted during the Global Travel Meet 2025 presentation.

As part of efforts to enhance the onboard experience, Malaysia Airlines confirmed it is evaluating cabin upgrades. The airline is already exploring short-haul and narrow-body lie-flat seating for business class.

According to MAS spokesperson, such a product would allow passengers flying long-haul in business class from cities like Paris or Sydney to enjoy the same seamless experience when connecting onward to regional destinations. For now, the airline maintains its two-class configuration on intercontinental routes, denying to think of adding a Premium Economy cabin.

Malaysia Aviation Group now operates 110 aircraft, with a fleet of Airbus A330, A350, and Boeing 737. The newest flagship, the Airbus A330neo, is being deployed on high-demand routes including Sydney and Melbourne. By 2028, at least 20 A330-900neos will join the fleet. The aircraft feature fully enclosed business-class suites with direct aisle access, upgraded economy seating, 4K seatback entertainment, and unlimited Wi-Fi.

The onboard product is supported by the airline’s Golden Lounge at KLIA and by services like “MH Upgrade,” which allows passengers to bid for last-minute seat upgrades.

Supporting Visit Malaysia Year 2026

Beyond the cabin, Malaysia Airlines is also investing heavily in marketing and partnerships. A strategic tie-up with Manchester United has boosted global visibility, while the airline’s “Bonus Side Trip” program offers international travelers free domestic flights—allowing visitors to see destinations such as Langkawi, Penang, or Kuching for just the cost of taxes.

Tourism Malaysia and the airline have coordinated efforts to position the country as a two-in-one destination ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. In July, the carrier hosted its Trade Elevation Summit in Langkawi, welcoming 300 delegates from 25 countries to experience Malaysia’s cultural and natural attractions.

“With new aircraft coming into the fleet and more routes being added, we want every journey to be a memorable one,” MAS spokesperson said. “For us, the experience of Malaysia begins the moment you step on board.”