Monday 18 August 2025

Today, Malaysia Airlines’ new Airbus A330neo has touched down at Sydney Airport for the very first time as the airline prepares to significantly expand its services on the Sydney–Kuala Lumpur route.

The next-generation aircraft offers greater passenger comfort, lower emissions, quieter engines, and is 25 percent more fuel efficient than earlier models.

It will operate on the airline’s existing twice-daily services before a third daily flight launches on 30 August, increasing annual capacity to over 630,000 seats - the highest for any Australian airport.

The new Kuala Lumpur–Sydney service, featuring a two-class layout (28 Business and 269 Economy which includes 24 extra-legroom seats), will bring Malaysia Airlines to 21 return flights per week by October.

Sydney Airport CEO, Scott Charlton, said: “This new A330neo service comes as Australia and Malaysia expand air traffic rights for the first time in years – lifting the cap from 36,000 to 50,000 seats a week and going unlimited in 2026. It means more choice and better connections for passengers, and more opportunities for tourism, trade and investment.

“With a third daily flight and a brand-new aircraft, we’re unlocking record capacity on the Kuala Lumpur route to meet strong demand. Malaysia Airlines has been a great partner for more than 50 years, and this is another big step in that journey.”

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group, said: “Touching down in Sydney with our A330neo for the very first time marks an exciting chapter for Malaysia Airlines and our long-standing relationship with Australia.

“This aircraft represents the future of our fleet – delivering a quieter, more sustainable, and more comfortable journey for our passengers.

“As we grow to 21 return flights per week by the end of October, we look forward to welcoming even more travellers to experience the warmth of Malaysian Hospitality, whether they are flying for business, leisure, or to reconnect with loved ones.”

The third daily Malaysia Airlines service also contributes to over two million additional international seats introduced at Sydney Airport over the past 12 months across 20 airlines - a 30 percent increase since February 2024.