Malaysia Airlines is reportedly looking at changing its name in a bid to steer the brand away from tragic accidents over the last two years.
The alleged name-change comes alongside suspicions that the state-owned airline could be axing as much as 6,000 staff in an attempt to cut costs and remain competitive.
Early last month, Malaysia Airlines’ Chief Executive, Christoph Mueller confirmed changes were being made at the airline, but didn’t reveal further details.
Except he did reveal that the airline is transitioning to a new company – Malaysia Airlines Berhad.
KarryOn is awaiting comment from Malaysia Airlines on whether the big name change mentioned in the Daily Mail over the weekend refers to the already revealed transition from Malaysian Airline System Berhad to simply, Malaysia Airlines Berhad.
If so, Mr Mueller said the transition wouldn’t have any effect to operations, except that an administrator was appointed to facilitate this change and facilitate the transfer of selected assets and liabilities from the existing organisation.
“I assure you our operations are very much business as usual.”
Christoph Mueller, Malaysia Airlines Chief Executive
“All MAS flights, schedules, and reservations continue to operate as normal.
“We remain committed to serving you with our world-class Malaysian Hospitality, and look forward to welcoming you on board Malaysia Airlines.”
However, the article insists a new airline name is coming this week – a name that will be fully trading by September.
Meanwhile, at a meeting with employees last month, Mueller said the airline is currently spending 20 percent more than its competitors.
This, in addition to successive air tragedies – MH17 and MH370 – has reportedly caused damage to the airline’s finances and even saw the carrier delisted earlier this year.
Despite rumoured changes, Mr Mueller continues to reassure the flying public that the airline’s daily operations are running as normal.
“Daily operations are very much business as usual as it finalises the restructure that owner Khazanah, Malaysia’s sovereign fund, commenced last year.”
Christoph Mueller, Malaysia Airlines Chief Executive
On a positive note, Malaysia Airlines is back on its growth path in Australia, according to the latest International Airline Activity report.
The full-service carrier achieved a 7.8 per cent increase in passenger numbers in February 2015, ahead of where it was in the same period in 2014.