FLAG carrier Myanma Airways has rebranded to Myanmar National Airlines (MNA) even as it plans to begin operating international flights next year.
As part of the repositioning, MNA has also introduced a modern computerised management system, a new website that allows online booking and is also launching a modern check-in system in Yangon, with plans to extend to Nay Pyi Taw, Mandalay and Nyaung U. The company has also restored its office building in downtown Yangon.
The company will remain under the ownership of the government, but operate as a separate commercial entity under a new board of directors.
“Alongside recent developments in our country, it is time for our airline to step back on the world stage,” said Than Tun, managing director, MNA. “Our government has taken the bold and progressive step of allowing the airline to become a separate corporation, although still retaining government ownership. This enables us to set up the airline in a very different way as compared to the past,” he added.
Tun also said that the airline plans to extend its operations next year to cover new destinations across Asia, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia and China. MNA currently flies to 26 domestic destinations in Myanmar.
The airline will also increase its fleet by adding an additional 10 Boeing 737 aircraft and six ATR72-600 aircraft next year.
The airline was established as Union of Burma Airways in 1948 and renamed Myanma Airways in 1989.
