Malaysia Airlines will join the oneworld alliance on February 1, 2013.
oneworld says Malaysia Airlines will substantially expand the alliance’s network in Southeast Asia, adding 15 destinations to the 840 already served in 156 countries. oneworld CEO Bruce Ashby said Malaysia Airlines’ Kuala Lumpur hub was geographically well-placed between existing hubs. “This will greatly enhance oneworld’s offering throughout one of the world’s fastest growing region for air travel demand,’” he added.
The two million members of Malaysian’s frequent flyer program will gain reciprocal benefits across all airline members as well as 25 affiliated airlines. There are some 125 million frequent flyer members across the oneworld alliance airlines.
Malaysia Airlines, which has a fleet of 88 aircraft, will be the second airline in the group operating the A380 alongside Qantas, which is sponsoring Malaysian’s entry to the alliance.
oneworld member airlines carry nearly 340 million passengers a year on a fleet of 2,500 aircraft, and generate roughly US$110 billion in revenue. Qatar Airways and Sri Lankan Airlines are set to join the alliance during 2013.
