NEW AIRLINE - Ascend Airways Malaysia secures AOC, to launch in 4Q25

Ascend Airways Malaysia (AYG) has obtained its air operator's certificate and air service permit from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), the start-up announced.

Part of the Avia Solutions Group holding, the carrier plans to commence operations in November 2025 with a single B737-800(SF) freighter. The airline will focus on charter and ACMI operations across Southeast Asia, initially offering cargo services before expanding into passenger operations in the first quarter of 2026.

The ACMI specialist took delivery of its first aircraft, B737-800(SF) 9M-ASC (msn 33813), on September 3, 2025. The 20.9-year-old freighter previously operated for other Avia Solutions Group subsidiaries, including BBN Airlines Nordic (Reykjavik Keflavik) and AirExplore (ED, Bratislava).

A second aircraft is expected to join the fleet in early 2026.

CH Aviation / Image: Ascend Airways