A few days ago, there was much ado over the fact that a certain flight by had faulty air conditioners. It left passengers distressed and upset. Several addressed complaints to the flight company, Malaysia Airlines, but received no response.
However, the airline recently released a statement clarifying what had happened. Apparently, there had been technical issues on the flight which prevented the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) from functioning.
According to Bernama, Malaysia Airlines issued an apology today (11th May). They directed the apology to three flights which had faced discomfort due to the warm cabins. The flights had been the MH2356 (Kuala Lumpur to Kuching, 3rd May), MH2710 (Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan, 8th May) and MH1205 (Alor Setar to Kuala Lumpur, 9th May).
Malaysia Airlines explained that the APU system supplies electrical power and pressurised air to the air conditioning system and engine starting on the ground. “When anomalies are detected on the ground before take-off, an aircraft cannot be powered up, resulting in a warm cabin environment,” they stated, as quoted by Bernama.
There were also complaints from passengers about the wait time. Apparently, they had been made to wait for a few hours before being told that the flight was delayed. Malaysia Airlines then clarified that the lengthy wait time was necessary to ensure the plane was safe to fly. They needed to perform required inspections using on-ground equipment from different airports.
Nonetheless, Malaysia Airlines has promised to change their procedures regarding this issue. “The airline will, with immediate effect, ensure that passengers are moved to the boarding hall within 10 minutes after an issue is identified while the rectification process is taking place,” they said.
Well, hopefully, future passengers won’t have to experience a baking, hot cabin again! After all, not only is it uncomfortable, it can also be dangerous.
Sources: Bernama, China Press
