Malaysia Airlines (MAS) took delivery of its first A380, becoming the eighth operator of the largest Airbus aircraft type. The aircraft was handed over to Ahmad Jauhari Yahya MAS Group's chief executive officer by Fabrice Brégier Airbus chief operating officer in Toulouse today. Malaysia Airlines has ordered six A380 aircraft, all powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines with a seating configuration of 494 passengers in three class layout. Features include flat beds in first and business class, all seats are equipped with the individual in-flight entertainment systems, USB ports and satellite telephone facilities.
Ahmad Jauhari Yahya, MAS Group chief executive officer said, “The A380 showcases our latest premium offering in products and services. This will be our flagship aircraft, offering new levels of comfort, luxury and convenience for long haul travel."
"With the A380 in our fleet, MAS will reinforce its position as one of the world’s preferred premium carriers bringing great Malaysian Hospitality to our customers.”
Fabrice Brégier Airbus's chief operating officer commented, "We are extremely proud to welcome Malaysia Airlines as the latest operator of the A380.
"The A380 has set new standards of comfort, fuel-efficiency and respect for the environment. The combination of these features and MAS’s world-famous in-flight service represents a winning formula, enabling the carrier to offer its passengers the best the industry has to offer.”
The typical seating configuration is 525 passengers in three class layout, the A380 is capable of flying 8,300 nautical miles or 15,300 kilometers. This enables non-stop service with a full payload from Kuala Lumpur to any destination in Europe or one-stop service to major destinations in the U.S.