Press Release

Malaysia Airlines (MH) and Japan Airlines (JL) are set to launch a joint business partnership on July 25, 2020, where the two carriers will cooperate commercially on flights between Malaysia and Japan.

Through this Joint Business, JL and MH will take on new challenges to further enhance convenience between Japan and Malaysia and allow customers to benefit from more flight choices.  With MH resuming flights to Japan starting July, MH and JL combined will offer four weekly services between Kuala Lumpur - Tokyo Narita in July and August.

This initiative will enable MH and JL to enhance their capabilities, and leverage on each other’s strengths. The carriers shared best practices and responsibilities are in line with a sustainable business model in the long haul. With JL’s renowned precision in service and offerings, combined with MH’s signature Malaysian Hospitality, customers are promised of the best travel experience.

At the same time, MH and JL are committed to uphold the highest standards in aircraft safety and hygiene procedures to protect their passengers and employees. With the significant shift in consumer expectations on air travel post COVID-19, they have adjusted to the new norm with modifications to offerings on ground and onboard as well as processes and procedures from check-in, boarding and arrival to uphold the highest safety and health standards.* 

Captain Izham Ismail, Group Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Airlines said, “I am excited that the Joint Business is finally taking off after a few months of delay due to travel restrictions between both countries. We look forward to the bilateral discussions between the governments of Malaysia and Japan to establish a travel bubble between the two countries, which will ease restrictions for cross-border travel. MH being the country’s national airline and JL, play a crucial role in reviving the economy and we are confident that this synergy will facilitate commerce, trade, and boost tourism for both countries.”

President of Japan Airlines, Yuji Akasaka added, “We are pleased to announce our newest joint business partnership with fellow oneworld member, Malaysia Airlines. While our expanded relationship is being launched during unprecedented times, it has allowed both Japan Airlines and Malaysia Airlines to ensure the highest standards of safety and hygiene are in place from the onset for our mutual customers’ peace of mind. And with hospitality in mind, we are confident that customers will delight in the in-flight experience, and enjoy convenient flight schedules and seamless services.”

*Please refer to the following links for more information on safety measures taken by MH and JL:
Japan Airlines - https://www.jal.co.jp/jp/en/info/2020/other/newjourney/index.html
Malaysia Airlines - https://www.malaysiaairlines.com/hq/en/campaign/fly-with-confidence.html

About Malaysia Airlines
Malaysia Airlines is the national carrier of Malaysia, offering the best way to fly to, from and around Malaysia. Malaysia Airlines carries up to 40,000 guests daily on memorable journeys inspired by Malaysia’s diverse richness. Malaysia Airlines embodies the incredible diversity of Malaysia, capturing its rich traditions, cultures, and cuisines via its inimitable Malaysian Hospitality across all customer touch points. 

Since September 2015, the airline has been owned and operated by Malaysia Airlines Berhad. It is part of the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), a global aviation organisation that comprises of different aviation business portfolios aimed at serving Malaysian air travel needs. Via our alliance with oneworld®, Malaysia Airlines offers superior connectivity with seamless journeys to 1,000 destinations across 150 plus countries, and access to over 650 airport lounges worldwide. For more information, please visit http://www.malaysiaairlines.com

About Japan Airlines
Japan Airlines (JAL) was founded in 1951 and became the first international airline in Japan. A member of the oneworld® alliance, the airline now reaches 412 cities in more than 60 countries and regions together with its codeshare partners. Awarded as one of the most punctual major international airlines and a certified 5-Star Airline by Skytrax, JAL is committed to providing customers with the highest levels of safety and quality in every aspect of its service and aims to become one of the most preferred and valued airlines in the world.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Japan Airlines: mediarelations.hdq@jal.com
Malaysia Airlines: media@malaysiaairlines.com