Malaysia Airlines, along with its affiliated airlines Firefly and Amal, intends to reduce the number of flights and routes until December 2024. This decision is a result of several incidents, including emergency landings and technical problems, which have raised concerns about the safety and reliability of these airlines.

In August alone, there were at least four notable incidents, including a Malaysia Airlines flight to Shanghai that had to return to Kuala Lumpur on August 20 due to a suspected cabin pressure problem.

The day prior, another Malaysia Airlines flight from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur was redirected to Alice Springs Airport in Australia because of a technical malfunction.

On August 24, the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), which oversees the three airlines, announced a "temporary reduction of its network" until December as it seeks to implement necessary corrective actions.

Captain Izham Ismail, MAG's group managing director, stated, "This initiative aims to ensure the long-term reliability of our fleet and the robustness of our operations, thereby enhancing our ability to provide customers of Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, and Amal with minimal disruptions and an optimal flying experience."

Amal serves as the Haj and Umrah pilgrimage division of Malaysia Airlines.

Captain Izham further noted that the group is actively addressing supply chain issues, workforce challenges, and other external factors as part of the ongoing normalization of global aviation operations following the pandemic.

MAG has experienced challenges this year due to delays in the delivery of new aircraft, resulting in a reduced number of planes available for flights, he noted.

"We are collaborating closely with our aircraft and engine manufacturers, as well as a diverse array of suppliers, to thoroughly tackle supply chain and technical challenges," he stated. Earlier this month, a Malaysia Airlines flight traveling from London to Kuala Lumpur was rerouted to Doha, Qatar, because of a technical issue that arose during the flight, as reported by The Edge Malaysia. One passenger allegedly spent over 60 hours waiting in Doha.

Additionally, another Malaysia Airlines flight heading to Jeddah on August 4 had to return to Kuala Lumpur, according to Malaysian media reports.

These ongoing disruptions have led former Malaysian transport minister Wee Ka Siong to urge the government to investigate and support the national carrier.

"Given the recurring incidents of emergency landings and technical difficulties with Malaysia Airlines, the public is left questioning, ‘What has happened to Malaysia Airlines? Is it safe to fly with them?’" he expressed in a Facebook post.

"This appears to be a crisis of confidence among passengers regarding Malaysia Airlines, which could harm the country's reputation and potentially result in financial losses for MAG if these issues persist, ultimately impacting the national economy."

In a statement released on Saturday, MAG's group managing director extended apologies to customers for the inconveniences.

"Prioritizing the optimal condition of our aircraft for safe and efficient operations while minimizing disruptions is our highest and most urgent priority," said Captain Izham.

"We are dedicated to enhancing our operations and positioning the company for sustainable success and growth."