Malaysia Airlines’ new holding company, Malaysia Airlines Berhad (MAB), has secured an Air Operator Certificate (AOC).
This will enable it to transition into the country’s new national carrier from today (Tuesday).
MAB had to undergo “months of audit activities, which included air-worthiness of the airline’s operations, aircraft maintenance, as well as regulatory conformity” to qualify for the AOC from Malaysia’s Department of Civil Aviation (DCA), the carrier said.
The restructure is part of Malaysian state fund Khazanah Nasional’s $1.6 billion plan to return the national airline to profit within three years.
MAS had said it was technically bankrupt, accruing debt long before the loss of flights MH370 and MH17 in 2013.
MAB’s chief executive designate, Christoph Mueller – former boss of Aer Lingus – said: “The AOC is a testament to all our staff at Malaysia Airlines who have been working hard to fulfill all the necessary requirements and specifications by DCA.
“We are very excited and focused on MAB’s take-off in September.”
Malaysian transport minister, Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, said: “This is an important milestone in the evolution of Malaysia’s national airline.
“The government of Malaysia is committed to ensure that the rejuvenated Malaysia Airlines will take off on a strong note.
“We hope to see more progress driven by the new entity especially in terms of service levels.”
Flybe chief commercial officer, Paul Simmons, is due to join Malaysia Airlines in the same role by December 1 as part of a revamped management team.