KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's major airlines have struggled to meet the 85% on-time performance (OTP) target set by the aviation regulator, according to the latest data from August and September this year.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke revealed that from January to August 2024, a total of 315,388 flights were scheduled, with 258,112 flights operated by Malaysian airlines.
Of the flights operated, only 76% were on time.
"Mavcom is constantly monitoring the punctuality of local airlines through the OTP rate at KLIA Terminals 1 and 2," Loke stated.
The latest figures show that Malaysia's two largest carriers, Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia, fell short of the 85% OTP goal in September and August.
Malaysia Airlines saw its domestic OTP improve to 78.1% in September, up from 58.2% in August. However, its international OTP remained below target at 72.0% in September, up from 54.7% in the previous month.
AirAsia's domestic OTP was 67.9% in September, down from 70.8% in August. Its international OTP also declined, from 69.5% in August to 61.7% in September.
Batik Air achieved a domestic OTP of 73.8% in September, down from 82.9% the previous month. Its international OTP fell to 57.7% in September, compared to 71.7% in August.
"To address the issue of delays and cancellations, the Transport Ministry and Mavcom have set a 85% OTP target and 80% for flights adhering to their schedules for all Malaysian airlines operating from all airports in the country, starting in April 2024," Loke told the Dewan Rakyat.
Loke was responding to Dr Richard Rapu @ Aman Anak Begri (GPS-Betong) who asked for the latest statistics on flight delays and cancellations involving all the domestic airlines in Malaysia, including Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia, since last year and for the main factors causing this problem.
Loke explained that performance monitoring of the airlines is published on the Mavcom website. If the airlines fail to achieve the target, it could impact their applications for renewal or the addition of air traffic rights from Mavcom.
Addressing MP’s concerns about frequent Malaysia Airlines flight disruptions, particularly in recent months, Loke said many airlines, including Malaysia Airlines, were set back by the current geopolitical situation and other factors affecting the supply chain for components.
Despite these challenges, Loke assured that the airlines, especially Malaysia Airlines, are prioritising safety and maintenance issues to ensure the highest levels of flight safety.
The Malaysia Aviation Group, which owns Malaysia Airlines, has cited global supply chain problems leading to delays in aircraft maintenance and repairs.
Its group chief executive officer Datuk Captain Izham Ismail has apologised for the setbacks, citing a cut in capacity by 18% due to plane shortages, parts scarcity, workforce deficits, and supply chain issues.
MAG aims to stabilise operations by January 2025 after losing crucial maintenance staff earlier this year.
Malaysia Airlines has faced operational challenges in recent months, including flight diversions and emergency landings. This prompted the aviation regulator to reduce the validity of the airline's operating certificate.
