Malaysia Airlines edges closer to first Boeing 787 order

Dhaka: Malaysia Airlines is reportedly nearing a deal to order its first-ever Boeing 787 Dreamliners, aiming to replace seven leased Airbus A350s currently in its fleet.

On September 18, a report from a prominent publication said the airline's parent, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), is considering an order for 10 Boeing 787-10s, the largest variant of the Dreamliner family.

Citing people familiar with the matter, the outlet said Boeing has edged out Airbus by offering earlier delivery slots, starting in 2031.

Malaysia Aviation Group has been widely reported to be seeking replacements for its seven leased A350-900s while also expanding its widebody fleet.

In August, President and CEO Captain Nasaruddin Bakar confirmed that while a minimum of seven aircraft would need replacing, the airline was also eyeing growth, suggesting the eventual order could exceed that number.

Other aircraft reportedly under consideration included the Airbus A350-1000, the Boeing 787-9, and the upcoming 777X.

Malaysia Airlines' current widebody fleet includes A350-900s, A330-900neos, A330-200s, and A330-300s. It previously flew Airbus A380s, Boeing 777s, and 747s.

The carrier operates 10 A330neos, with 30 more on order. In July 2025, it exercised options for 20 additional A330-900neos, with deliveries scheduled from 2029 through 2031.