Rayani Air will make a comeback, CEO says as airline faces temporary suspension

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 — Faced with criticisms over its unsatisfactory services and operations, Rayani Air chief executive A. Ravi issued a public apology today to all of the airline’s customers.

In his Facebook page, Ravi said that the airline management is saddened by the shortcomings in its services, and promised to address its weaknesses.

He also pledged that Rayani Air would make a comeback soon, and called on Malaysians to continue supporting the airline.

“We at Rayani Air would like to express a million thank yous to all those who had flown with us.

“Thank you also to all of Rayani Air's staff who have been together throughout the good and bad times of this company. Rayani Air will be back Wait!!!!” Ravi said.

He pointed out that Rayani Air was still new to the airline industry, and as such still has much to learn.

“Do continue supporting our airline. May this company remain relevant for all, regardless of colour and creed and keep soaring high,” Ravi said.

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Rayani Air halted its operations since Friday until further notice as part of a company restructuring exercise, after a pilot strike reportedly forced at least three flight cancellations..

Earlier today, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said that the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) will issue Rayani Air a provisional suspension notice tomorrow for failing the conditions of its Air Operators’ Certificate.

He added that the DCA will undertake a full administration and safety audit to determine if Rayani is “fit” to continue operations after serving provisional suspension.

A report by The Star Online today also quoted Liow as saying that Rayani Air had no authority to suspend its own operations, and that the matter was up to the DCA.

The troubled airline, which launched its maiden flight just about three months ago last December 20, has been hit with allegations of sabotage, as well as flight delays and cancellations.

Rayani Air was also investigated by the Transport Ministry after it issued handwritten boarding passes to passengers on a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching last month.