Malaysia Airlines is the flag carrier of Malaysia, and the nations second largest airlines. They operate a large number of modern Airbus and Boeing aircraft throughout Asia, as well as Australia, New Zealand and three European destinations. While the airline has experienced two high profile incidents in recent years, they do have a very good safety record and are regularly voted among the best airlines in the world. Malaysia also owns two domestic/regional carriers, MASwings and Firefly.
The Difference
- Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines were once the same company, but were split into two airlines when Singapore gained independence in 1972.
- Malaysian do not allow infants to travel in First Class, and do not allow anyone under 12 on the upper deck of their A380’s, creating ‘quiet zones’ for business passengers.
The Classes
BUSINESS CLASS In Business Class you’ll receive priority check in, priority boarding, lounge access, a larger lie flat seat, larger screens for your inflight entertainment, a wider selection of meal options, the ability to order your meals online up to two days before your flight, priority luggage return and a larger luggage allowance of two pieces of checked luggage at 40 kilograms each, and two pieces of carry on at seven kilograms each.
Destinations
Kuala Lumpur and most major cities in Southeast Asia (particularly Borneo), India and three destinations in Europe.
The Hub
KUALA LUMPUR AIRPORT. Commonly known as KLIA, this airport is one of the largest, most modern, and efficient airports in the world. The most important thing for AirAsia passengers to know is that their flights fly into KLIA2, a dedicated low-cost airline terminal located two kilometres away from the main terminal. The main terminal, called KLIA, hosts most international airlines, as well as Malaysia Airlines. There is a train connecting the two terminals which runs every 15-20 minutes and takes a mere three minutes to complete the journey. It then runs into downtown Kuala Lumpur. The inter-terminal ticket costs MYR2 (less than NZD$1.00). Both terminals have a large number of shops and restaurants with many major international brands represented, but if that’s not enough, there’s a large outlet mall just six kilometres away. If you’re stopping over for longer than six hours, you can also do a quick sightseeing tour of KL. Getting through security and customs is a breeze. Free WiFi is available throughout.
