Malaysian Carrier Starts Fleet Upgrade To Rapidly Expand Its Route Network

Firefly, Malaysia Airlines’ subsidiary carrier, has taken ownership of its first new ATR 72-600. The aircraft is the first of 20 latest generation firm ATRs, plus 16 options, ordered by Malaysia Airlines in December 2012. Firefly currently operates 12 ATR 72-500s, and with the arrival of the new ATR 72-600s will almost triple its exclusively ATR 72 aircraft fleet, taking the total to over 30 aircraft.

With this significant fleet expansion Firefly plans to rapidly increase capacity on their domestic network augmenting flight frequencies on routes to key destinations in Subang, Penang, Kota Bahru and Johor Bahru. The airline will also be able to boost their regional offering ensuring its customers better connectivity within the ASEAN network, -specially Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore-, thus reinforcing the position of Firefly in these markets and key business routes.

The new-generation ATR-600s are equipped with a new full-glass cockpit and feature a high comfort layout seating 72 passengers with larger overhead bins. In addition to the performance advantages and enhanced comfort, these aircraft offer an improved operational flexibility for the airline. The freshly delivered ATR 72-600 will enter into service this month. The aircraft's first commercial flight should take place following its arrival in Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang on 12 July, 2013, when the ATR 72-600 takes off for Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

“We have been looking forward to this day for quite some time now. We are thrilled to finally receive our new aircraft. Our exclusive ATR 72 fleet has allowed us to develop a unique high frequency network out of Subang, Penang, Kota Bahru and Johor Bahru. Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle communities, their population and economy will also capitalize on this important investment," said Ignatius Ong, Chief Executive Officer of Firefly.
 
"We are very proud that the new ATR aircraft is here to launch Firefly’s fleet expansion,” said Filippo Bagnato, Chief Executive Officer of ATR. “It is great to see the ATR 72s play an integral role in Firefly’s success. The airline is exclusively relying on the ATR 72s to expand its business and its presence as a major actor of the regional aviation in South East Asia. The partnership is being very fruitful, and Firefly can definitely benefit from the many advantages of the ATR aircraft.” He added “We are pleased to introduce today the latest generation aircraft ATR 72-600 into the Malaysian market. This aircraft offers the best operating economics of any aircraft in its seat category, as well as top-class standards of comfort and cabin interior designs."

(Image provided by ATR)

FMI: www.atraircraft.com