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PETALING JAYA: Low-cost airline Firefly Airlines, which now operates a fleet of 12 twin turboprops, will launch its jet operations in the first quarter of 2021 (1Q21), serving the domestic, Asean and Asia-Pacific markets from the Airport Penang International. .
With the new company, Firefly will diversify its base by connecting secondary cities in Malaysia with Sabah and Sarawak, Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore.
Additionally, the jet’s operations will complement Firely’s sister company, Malaysia Airlines, in serving the leisure markets.
Firefly, a wholly owned subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), now operates primarily in Malaysia.
MAG said in a statement yesterday that Firefly would add up to 10 narrow-body jets to its fleet in phases.
The low-cost carrier will take advantage of the resources and talents available within MAG, with the possibility of deploying the Malaysia Airlines Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
This will give Malaysia Airlines room to focus on its network serving the premium market.
According to MAG Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Captain Izham Ismail (file photo below) domestic and short-haul travel will be most preferred in today’s environment.
Izham said “it makes business sense for Firefly to supply this demand, but from the northern region.”
“This is in line with the group’s enhanced Long-Term Business Plan 2.0 which has been realigned to fit the current and future post-Covid-19 environment, with a focus on strengthening the revenue streams of each subsidiary,” he said.
Setting up Firefly’s downtown Penang jet operations requires minimal investment by MAG in 2021, with an expected increase in average seat per kilometer by 36% over the next five years.
Meanwhile, Firefly CEO Philip See said the low-cost airline’s upcoming jet operations will help it adapt to market needs that have changed after Covid-19.
“Firefly is ready to meet that challenge, as we see great potential in this dual hub strategy, while maintaining our turboprop service outside of Subang Skypark, serving the mix of corporate and leisure travelers,” said See.
With the new jet operations, Firefly will offer a flexible service concept, with product separation to suit price-sensitive and leisure-focused customers, providing a more meaningful value proposition.
Passengers will continue to enjoy the privileges and services as a premium carrier that includes a complimentary 20kg checked baggage allowance, as well as the opportunity to accumulate and redeem Enrich Reward Points with the option to add other privileges, such as selection of seats and insurance coverage.
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