Malaysia Airlines chief to speak out on challenges

WORLD – The chief executive of a crisis-hit airline will speak out about his plans to transform the operation. Dubbed ‘the Terminator’ in the media, Christoph Mueller, Malaysia Airlines chief executive, will headline World Travel Market London’s aviation programme for 2015. He will discuss how he is dealing with the challenges facing Malaysia Airlines, which he previously described as “technically bankrupt”. Last year Malaysia Airlines lost two aircraft—Flight 370 and Flight 17— fewer than five months apart, with a total of 537 people killed. The events aggravated the airline’s financial troubles and lead to the renationalisation of the airline. The announcement comes as the carrier’s holding company rebrands as Malaysia Airlines Berhad, replacing Malaysian Airline System Berhad, from today (1 September). Mueller, who became chief executive in May 2015, has reduced the airline’s workforce to about 14,000 – axing about 6,000 jobs – and is expected to cut unprofitable long-haul routes. He previously held senior roles at Aer Lingus, Belgium’s Sabena and Germany’s Lufthansa. “Mueller must have one of the toughest assignments in corporate history,” said aviation expert John Strickland. “Aside from the twin tragedies of 2014, Malaysian had been losing money and struggled with inefficiency, intense competition and political challenges.” “The airline made a bold move to appoint a non-Malaysian as chief executive, but Mueller is a seasoned industry executive with a successful track record, so it will be fascinating to hear how he is taking on this challenge and how his previous experience may help,” he added. Mueller’s keynote interview, to be conducted by Strickland, will take place from 2-3pm on 4 November at WTM 2015’s Platnium Suite. The event’s aviation programme also features an airline industry panel on 3 November from 10.30-11.30am. World Travel Market London 2015 will take place at London ExCeL from 2-5 November.