PETALING JAYA: A total of 248 incidents involving Return To Chock (RTC) and 13 incidents of Air Turn Back (ATB) with aircraft were recorded last year.
As of October this year, 181 RTC and 18 ATB incidents have been noted, according to the Transport Ministry.
RTC refers to when an aircraft is instructed to return to its parking position before takeoff, while ATB involves a return to the origin airport after takeoff if necessary.
The response followed questions by former transport minister Wee Ka Siong in Parliament regarding the findings from a special audit by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) on emergency landings and technical issues involving Malaysia Airlines.
The Transport Ministry added that strategies to rebuild passenger confidence in Malaysia Airport Holdings include improving the On-Time Performance (OTP) set by the Malaysian Aviation Commission at 85%, with 80% of flights adhering to schedules at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
CAAM conducted spot checks on Malaysia Airlines flights, including MAB Engineering Services, from June 24 to 28.
The investigation revealed significant issues leading to MAB aircraft technical incidents, such as potential mechanical component problems and a shortage of skilled workers required for maintenance.
In response, Malaysia Airlines has prepared a mitigation plan to enhance aircraft reliability and has commenced acquiring new aircraft to boost passenger confidence and ensure sufficient aircraft for scheduled flights.
To strengthen aircraft maintenance, some flight networks have been temporarily cancelled.
This cancellation allows more proactive maintenance and reduces the risk of aircraft damage, providing a better flight experience for customers.
Malaysia Airlines has also investigated current technical issues, improved maintenance protocols, and collaborated with aircraft and engine manufacturers to address supply chain and technical issues.
The airline is focusing on increasing training and recruitment to meet the growing demand and complexity of modern aircraft.
Collectively, these efforts aim to restore passenger confidence and ensure safer and more reliable flights.
Meanwhile, based on CAAM's latest audit, the renewal period for the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) will be reduced from three years to one year starting Sept 1 to Aug 31 next year.
This change requires Malaysia Airlines to undergo more frequent auditing to ensure adherence to the mitigation plan submitted by CAAM.
CAAM will continue monitoring and conducting safety audits of all airlines operating in the country to ensure safety and security standards are upheld.
The ministry affirmed that the government will not compromise on airline passenger safety.
