Firefly to expand turboprop operations
Firefly, the Malaysian low-cost carrier, has revealed plans to expand its fleet of turboprop aircraft this year.
In 2011, the airline flew 1.5 million passengers using a fleet of 10 ATR-72-500 aircraft. Having recently taken delivery of another two ATR aircraft, Firefly said it expects to fly more than 30% more passengers in 2012. Now the Subang-based airline is preparing for further fleet expansion.
“Our turboprop operations remain strong and it is poised to grow further in 2012. There are plans to expand Firefly’s existing network and acquire more turboprop aircraft to support the growth within the medium to longer term period. Passengers can look forward to an increase in frequencies for selected routes in March and announcements of new routes in the near future,” said Ignatius Ong, Firefly’s Chief Operating Officer.
In 2011, Firefly ceased operating its jet aircraft services out of Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) following the joint venture between of Malaysia Airlines (MAS) and AirAsia. Firefly is an MAS subsidiary. It reiterated however, its plans to develop its turboprop services.
“The turboprop aircraft operating out of Subang and Penang hubs to other domestic and international destinations remain unaffected [by the KLIA pull-out] and plans for growth are in motion,” Ong said.
“In fact, the management team has commenced looking into assessing the use of next generation turboprop aircraft which aims at supplying more capacity, better fuel efficiencies and lesser carbon emission. This aligns well with Firefly’s commitment in safeguarding the environment.
“Firefly is a part of the community it serves and its bright turboprop aircraft will continue to connect small towns and cities that otherwise would not enjoy the benefit of fast, efficient and safe air travel,” Ong concluded.