Action being taken to resolve issues at Malaysia Airlines

Transport minister cites mechanical woes, shortage of aircraft maintenance workers

- Hazlin Hassan

The Malaysian government is moving to tackle serious issues faced by Malaysia Airlines that have forced the national carrier and its two sister airlines to reduce flight frequencies and routes until December, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said on Aug 28.

He said mechanical issues and a shortage of skilled aircraft maintenance workers were among key factors affecting the group, following three incidents in August involving Malaysia Airlines that have raised concerns over the reliability of its aircraft.

Two flights had to turn back to Kuala Lumpur International Airport due to technical problems while in the air. A third flight en route to Kuala Lumpur from Melbourne had to make an emergency landing at Alice Springs in Australia's Northern Territory due to technical issues.