Malaysia Aviation Group Considers COMAC C919 for Fleet Renewal Amid Delivery Delays

Malaysia Aviation Group, owner of Malaysia Airlines, is actively evaluating Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) aircraft, including the C919, for its future fleet, according to group CEO Datuk Captain Izham Ismail in an interview with Yicai.

The evaluation forms part of MAG’s long-term fleet development plan through 2040, amid persistent delivery delays affecting carriers globally. Izham stated that the group faces delivery delays of three to six months across all aircraft models, creating pressure on operational planning.

Initial discussions with COMAC began last year and intensified during the second quarter of 2025. MAG is mainly focused on the largest model, the C919, though it is proceeding cautiously in light of the post-pandemic market environment.

“We are evaluating models that can support the group’s growth, and COMAC’s models are under serious consideration,” said Izham. “Any business decision must consider innovation, safety, airworthiness certification, operational viability, and, most importantly, commercial value,” he told Yicai.

Current Malaysia Airlines capacity stands at around 70% of pre-pandemic levels. Despite this, the business class cabin on Australian routes is frequently full, and there was a 41% increase in bookings from China during the recent Golden Week holiday.

Izham indicated that any decision regarding the induction of COMAC aircraft would likely not materialize in the near term, estimating a possible three to five-year timeframe. MAG plans to launch a Chengdu route in January 2026 and is also considering Shenzhen as a future destination.

“We take this evaluation very seriously,” Izham said, noting that the group remains focused on long-term value as it navigates ongoing supply chain disruptions and a gradual recovery in international demand.

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Ricardo Meier

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