Malaysia Airlines has unveiled the design and specifications of its first Airbus A380-800 aircraft.

The aircraft, to be delivered in the middle of June, will have a new livery on its exterior, said the airline.

The aircraft will have 494 seats in a three-class configuration - eight in first class, 66 in business and 420 in economy. The business class seats, together with 70 economy seats, will be on the aircraft's upper deck.

The A380 will be put into service on 1 July on thrice-weekly flights between Kuala Lumpur and London.

"The aircraft is currently with Airbus for final touches before a handover to us," added a spokesman.

MAS A380 web
MAS A380 web

© Malaysia Airlines

First class seats on the aircraft will have a seat pitch of 85 inches (216cm) and a 87-inch lie-flat bed.

The aircraft will also be fitted with the Thales in-flight entertainment system and seats in all classes will have a USB port and a satellite telephone facility.

The carrier is also planning to operate its second A380 on the Kuala Lumpur-London route and to fly its third aircraft on the Kuala Lumpur-Sydney route.

"The investment in this latest aircraft, its technology, futuristic style and innovative design in cabin comfort are our initiatives to ensure that our passengers continue to experience an exciting new level of comfort, luxury and convenience. This is the identity that will move us from 'traditional classic' to 'premium contemporary' in our efforts to position Malaysia Airlines as a preferred premium carrier," said the carrier's chief executive Ahmad Jauhari Yahya.

The carrier is scheduled to receive five of its six A380s on order this year.

Source: Air Transport Intelligence news