马航集团董事总经理：评估购买C919飞机的可行性

Core Viewpoint - Malaysia Airlines is evaluating various aircraft models to support its growth, including the Chinese-made C919, with a decision expected around 2026 [2][3]. Group 1: Aircraft Fleet Expansion - Malaysia Airlines plans to increase its fleet from 86 to 116 aircraft by 2035 as part of a long-term development plan [2]. - The airline is particularly assessing narrow-body aircraft, with the C919 being a potential candidate [2]. Group 2: Supply Chain Challenges - Global airlines, including Malaysia Airlines, are facing delivery delays of 3 to 6 months for all aircraft models due to supply chain issues [3]. - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reports a record backlog of over 17,000 commercial aircraft orders, significantly higher than the average of about 13,000 from 2010 to 2019 [3]. Group 3: Engine Maintenance Delays - Engine overhauls, which typically take 55 to 60 days, are now taking up to a year, particularly affecting Rolls-Royce and Pratt & Whitney engines [4]. - The recovery of normal delivery times for aircraft and engines is expected to take 3 to 5 years due to geopolitical factors and labor shortages [4]. Group 4: Route Recovery and Passenger Demand - Despite delivery delays, Malaysia Airlines has seen a 41% increase in bookings for the Chinese market during the National Day holiday, with a seat occupancy rate of around 82% [5]. - The airline is adjusting its route planning to increase capacity on China routes, aiming to restore operations to pre-pandemic levels [4][5].