Malaysia Airlines expands flexible fare options, inks deal with LATAM

Malaysia Airlines passengers traveling to destinations in South-East Asia and South Asia will get a wider choice of economy fare options from February 18. Flexible options previously available only on domestic Malaysian routes are being introduced more widely to give passengers the choice of Lite, Basic or Flexible fares. Lite comes basically with the seat 7kg of cabin baggage and a complimentary meal. There is no checked baggage, seat selection, Enrich Miles upgrades, child discounts or booking flexibility. READ: Qantas Sunrise Project A350 to be a "real dream machine". Basic adds the ability to upgrade and checked baggage allowance of 20kg as well as a 10 percent child discount. Tickets can be rebooked with a change fee and fare difference but there are no refunds, flexibility to travel earlier on day of travel or seat selection included. Flex fares come with all the bells and whistles, including a 30kg checked baggage allowance and a 15 percent child discount. Rebooking can be done for the fare difference only and refunds are allowed with a fee. “ I believe the fares we introduce today will create a more personalized and enjoyable booking experience coupled with unrivaled Malaysian Hospitality onboard, to create truly seamless, intuitive and stress-free travels to be enjoyed by our loyal passengers,” said Malaysia chief executive Captain Izham Ismail. The changes come as Malaysia recently signed a codeshare deal with LATAM ahead of the South American group’s move to leave the oneworld alliance. The deal means Malaysia Airlines customers will be able to connect to Santiago, Chile, via Auckland in New Zealand or Australia's Sydney and Melbourne on LATAM aircraft carrying its “MH” code. Ismail said the deal would help build the Malaysian carrier’s footprint in South America. “This codeshare creates yet another way for international travelers to Fly Malaysia and experience the amazing culture and abundant nature that Malaysia has to offer,’’ he said. LATAM will leave oneworld on May 1, 2020 — five months earlier than expected —  in the wake of a 2019 deal which saw US giant Delta Air Lines buy a 20 percent stake in the group. Oneworld benefits for LATAM customers will be offered on the alliance’s flights up to and including April 30, excluding benefits from new member Royal Air Maroc after it joins April 1.