AirAsia takes delivery of 19th Aircraft

AirAsia received its latest Boeing 737-300 delivery today. The 9M-AAR, which had earlier undergone an extensive refurbishment exercise and overhaul completed by ST Aerospace Engineering in Singapore, arrived at the KL International Airport (KLIA) at approximately 11.00 am.

Featuring a one of its kind livery, the 9M-AAR spots a picture of AirAsia Cabin Crew on the aircraft’s tail. The 9M- AAR is the fifth aircraft in AirAsia to spot a unique design. The other aircraft are the “lat” plane (9M –AAP), “Jalur Gemilang (9M-AAI),” “Carabao (9M-AAN)” and “TimeCell (9M-AAD)”.

Tony Fernandes, Group CEO, AirAsia Berhad commented on the arrival of the new plane, “AirAsia is committed to offering a service that is more than just low fares. Our Cabin Crew are trained professionals who not only provide care for our guests, but will also go the extra mile to ensure the comfort of our guests on board. From boarding guests, to selling food, and organizing our signature in flight games, our crew are a pool of multi talented and dedicated individuals. The 9M-AAR is a dedication to our very own ambassadors in the sky” - 

The 9M-AAR is leased from GE Capital Aviation Service (GECAS), and had previously served under Continental Airlines in the US. Its arrival today will bring the airline’s combined fleet with its sister company in Thailand, Thai AirAsia, to 19 aircraft.

AirAsia’s latest delivery is outfitted with signature leather seats and boasts AirAsia’s plush red carpeting. The aircraft is also equipped with the latest safety enhancement systems, which are compliant with requirements by the Department of Civil Aviation of Malaysia (DCA).

AirAsia signed a US$63.5 million contract with ST Aerospace Engines (a member of STA Group), which enables the company to conduct heavy maintenance and engineering components on AirAsia’s behalf. Following the contract, ST Aerospace Engines will manage a total of 28 engines, the equivalence of 14 aircraft, on behalf of AirAsia. An additional 16 engines are presently maintained by GE Engineering Services (GEES), AirAsia’s other partner for engine maintenance. AirAsia also works with VolvoAero and Airline Rotable Limited for aircraft engine and aircraft frame parts.

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