Now travelling between Malaysia and India is set to become more seamless with a new pact between the countries. Malaysia Airlines and IndiGo Airlines have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing connectivity and travel options between Malaysia and India. This collaboration signifies a strategic move to leverage the networks of both airlines, thereby providing customers with increased flexibility and a wider array of travel opportunities.
Under this agreement, Malaysia Airlines will act as the marketing carrier for IndiGo-operated flights, bolstering its connectivity with India. Along with that, IndiGo passengers will gain access to Malaysia Airlines' extensive network, facilitating travel to various destinations across Southeast Asia. This arrangement aims to streamline travel experiences for customers of both airlines, offering seamless connections and integrated travel itineraries.
Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasising India's significance as Malaysia Airlines' largest international market. He highlighted the MoU as a means to expand the airline's reach in India beyond its current nine hubs.
"This collaboration underscores our ongoing commitment to providing diverse travel options and flexibility to this growing aviation market, primarily focusing on enhancing the customer journey. We look forward to fostering cultural exchange and making travel more accessible for both Malaysia Airlines and IndiGo passengers as we extend our inimitable Malaysian Hospitality to ensure a warm and welcoming experience for all our guests," he said.
Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer of IndiGo, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the proposed codeshare agreement's potential to foster seamless travel experiences between India and Malaysia. He emphasised the alignment of this collaboration with IndiGo's vision of offering unparalleled network access and delivering on its promise of punctual, affordable, and hassle-free travel experiences.
Currently, Malaysia Airlines operates 71 weekly flights to nine major Indian cities, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, and Trivandrum. With this MoU, both airlines aim to enhance connectivity, promote cultural exchange, and make travel more accessible and convenient for passengers travelling between Malaysia and India.