Malaysia Airlines have been unveiled as Manchester United’s official commercial airline in a new multi-year global partnership deal.
The Malaysian flag-carrier and the Premier League club announced the new sponsorship deal on March 22, 2024, at an industry trade fair in Kuala Lumpur, with two former Manchester United club legends in attendance.
Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group, Izham Ismail, met with ex-defenders and club ambassadors Patrice Evra and Wes Brown at the event to celebrate news of the collaboration.
“Manchester United has fans from all over the world, and the passionate support we have here in Asia never fails to impress me. I am pleased to be able to share our partnership with Malaysia Airlines with those fans and introduce them to the best-in-class service they offer,” five-time Premier League winner Patrice Evra said.
He added: “Wes and I travelled here on Malaysia Airlines, and I would like to thank them for such a comfortable journey. From the food to the comfortable seats and friendly service, everything was perfect.”
Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Manchester United terminated its partnership with the club’s previous airline sponsor, Aeroflot.
We are thrilled to announce our partnership as the Official Commercial Airline Partner of Manchester United.
— Malaysia Airlines (@MAS) March 22, 2024
Stay tuned for updates on special events and the opportunity to win a once-in-a-lifetime experience as we embark on this exciting journey together. #MHxMU #MUFC… pic.twitter.com/iAmwISMafG
Manchester United have one of its largest international bases in Malaysia, with the country boasting three official supporter’s clubs, including one of the club’s most populated supporter communities in Kuala Lumpur.
“We are delighted to announce this exciting partnership with Manchester United, a club synonymous with excellence and sporting passion around the world. This collaboration brings together two global icons, Malaysia Airlines and Manchester United, and will create unforgettable experiences for our fans and customers,” Ismail said.
He added: “Aligning with a globally recognized club like United places Malaysia Airlines in front of a massive worldwide audience, significantly boosting brand recognition, especially in Europe and Southeast Asia where United has a large fanbase.”
