Malaysia Airlines to resume Busan flights, Firefly to launch Kunming; MAG catering facility due by 4Q 2028

Malaysia Airlines plans to resume flights to Busan starting December 2, 2026, marking its return to the South Korean city after a 28-year absence. Captain Nasaruddin A Bakar, the president and CEO of MAG, announced the service, which will be operated by four weekly Boeing 737-8 flights, expanding the airline's connectivity to the region.

Firefly, Malaysia Airlines' sister airline, will also enter the Chinese market by launching direct services to Kunming (KMG) using Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The company aims to grow its network by reconnecting established markets and expanding into new ones, as stated by Nasaruddin.

In response to growing demand, the airline will enhance its connectivity with additional capacity to Fukuoka, Japan, and Brisbane, Australia. The number of weekly flights to Fukuoka will increase from five to daily operations starting December 1, 2026, while Brisbane flights will rise from six to daily from October 25, with the airline deploying new-generation A330neo aircraft on the route. Surabaya, in East Java, will see an increase from 14 to 16 weekly flights starting November 1, 2026.

Malaysia Airlines is also investing in its in-flight catering facility, which is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2028 and commence operations in the second quarter of 2029. The facility, located near Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), will produce approximately 50,000 meals daily, almost double the current capacity. The new facility, part of Malaysia Airlines Group Culinary Solutions (MAGCS), will support the group's airlines, third-party carriers, and create employment opportunities.

Fleet modernization is another key focus for the airline, with 26 modern aircraft recently received to support key markets across its network. These initiatives, along with the expansion of routes, improved reliability, and increased capacity, align with Malaysia Airlines' Long-Term Business Plan 3.0 and its ambition to reach Destination 2030.