Malaysia Airlines has grounded its new Airbus A330neo jet just days after its maiden flight due to technical issues, local media reported.
Safety is paramount and technical faults with a new airplane could affect the reputation and brand of the carrier, group managing director of the Malaysian Aviation Group and CEO of Malaysia Airlines Berhad Izham Ismail was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times.
The plane’s inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur to Australia’s Melbourn last Thursday was marred by technical issues.
The airline has suffered several setbacks this year, with reduced routes and manpower issues. In 2022, it agreed to acquire 20 Airbus A330neo planes to update its fleet of widebody jets. The A330neo, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, is considered more fuel-efficient.
Malaysia Airlines grounds Airbus A330neo jet over safety concern
