Malaysia Airlines has returned to Brisbane, restoring its pre-COVID-19 service to Kuala Lumpur.
The Malaysian flag carrier has commenced five A330-300 flights per week, with the first MH135 service touching down aboard 9M-MTO just before 6:30am on Saturday. The service will add more than 75,000 inbound seats to Brisbane each year.
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“The return of Malaysia Airlines is another win for Queensland. With Kuala Lumpur a vibrant, world-class destination and a key gateway to Asia and beyond, the airline’s extensive network will open new doors for travellers and trade,” Gert-Jan de Graaf, chief executive of Brisbane Airport, said.
“Malaysia Airlines offers exceptional connectivity into India, and we know this is a rapidly expanding market for Queensland. As the world’s most populous nation with a growing appetite for travel experiences, India represents a significant opportunity for tourism growth.”
Captain Izham Ismail, group managing director of Malaysia Aviation Group, said the restored Brisbane service will bolster the airline’s Australian footprint.
“The Brisbane-Kuala Lumpur service marks a key step in strengthening our network in Australia, enhancing connectivity for both business and leisure travellers,” he said.
“Queenslanders will now enjoy more convenient options to experience Malaysia’s vibrant cities, rich culture and the signature Malaysian hospitality with Malaysia Airlines.
“In addition, through our Bonus Side Trip program, eligible passengers transiting through Kuala Lumpur can explore an additional Malaysian domestic destination with zero base fare, paying only the applicable taxes – making their journey even more rewarding.”
While the Brisbane route is currently being operated by A330-300s, Malaysia Airlines has signalled plans to switch all Australian services to A330neos by mid-2026.
Speaking exclusively to Australian Aviation last month, Malaysia Aviation Group’s chief commercial officer, airline business, Dersenish Aresandiran, said the carrier wants to improve the cabin experience for Australian passengers travelling to and from Kuala Lumpur.
“By end of quarter one next year, we will have one of the youngest fleets ever operated by any airline into the Australia and New Zealand region,” he said.
“Every destination in Australia will be operated by our A330neo. We call it our flagship aircraft. You get superior product on business class and economy.”
Malaysia Airlines announced a ramp-up of both Sydney and Melbourne capacity earlier this year, with three daily Kuala Lumpur flights for each airport. The airline has also announced daily A330neo services to Adelaide.