Malaysia Airlines Takes Off with Manchester United Livery, Brisbane Relaunch, and Regional Network Boost
NEWS
by Chief Editor
4/18/2025
KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia Airlines made a powerful statement at MATTA Fair 2025, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), by announcing three major initiatives that reinforce its status as a global full-service carrier. The airline unveiled a limited-edition Manchester United aircraft livery, confirmed the resumption of flights to Brisbane, and announced expanded frequencies across the Asia-Pacific region.
These announcements, made at one of Malaysia’s largest travel and tourism expos, reflect the airline’s bold strategy to merge global branding, regional growth, and elevated passenger experience.
Photo by Business Today
Photo by Malaysia Airlines
A Flying Tribute to Football: Manchester United Livery Revealed
The highlight of the day was the reveal of Malaysia Airlines' Manchester United-themed livery, now featured on one of its flagship Airbus A330-300 aircraft. The custom design features vibrant red accents flowing from the Malaysian flag into Manchester United’s iconic crest — symbolizing a blend of national pride and international sports excellence.
The event was made even more memorable with the appearance of Manchester United legends — Dimitar Berbatov, Nemanja Vidić, and Lúis Nani — who were present to officiate the reveal and engage with fans. Public meet-and-greet sessions were held at MAG Arena from 18 to 20 April, turning the MATTA Fair into a full celebration of football and aviation.
This livery marks the visual expression of Malaysia Airlines' partnership with Manchester United, which began in 2024. It will be flown on various international routes, giving aviation enthusiasts and football fans a chance to spot this unique aircraft across key destinations.
Reconnecting with Brisbane: A New Chapter Begins
In tandem with the livery reveal, Malaysia Airlines confirmed that it will resume direct flights to Brisbane starting 29 November 2025 — reconnecting Malaysia with Queensland after a hiatus since the pandemic. The route will operate five times weekly, flown by the airline’s new Airbus A330-900neo, part of its growing next-generation fleet.
The A330neo promises a significantly improved passenger experience, featuring quieter cabins, better fuel efficiency, and modern amenities including lie-flat Business Class seats and advanced IFE systems.
To commemorate the relaunch, Malaysia Airlines is offering promotional fares starting from RM1,999 (Economy) and RM8,999 (Business). This announcement brings the airline’s Australian network to five key cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane.
Asia-Pacific Frequency Boost and Fleet Upgrades
To support its growing regional presence, Malaysia Airlines also announced increased flight frequencies to several high-demand destinations, including:
Sydney – Up to 11 flights weekly
Melbourne – Doubled to 14 flights weekly
Guangzhou – Now daily
Increased services to Auckland, Surabaya, Phuket, and Trivandrum
Additionally, Malaysia Airlines previewed its all-new lie-flat Business Class seats for its Boeing 737-10 narrowbody aircraft, bringing long-haul comfort to regional routes — a first in the airline’s history.
These network and cabin upgrades signal Malaysia Airlines’ focus on comfort, connectivity, and customer satisfaction.
“We are proud to unite the passion of sport, the pride of the nation, and the spirit of innovation through this partnership. Malaysia Airlines will continue to reimagine travel and deliver world-class service grounded in Malaysian Hospitality,” he said during the event.
