The Civil Aviation Authority (CAAM) has suspended the operating licence of troubled low-cost carrier MYAirline, effective today.

According to CAAM chief executive Norazman Mahmud, the suspension of the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) will be in force for 90 days, pending further CAAM investigations.

Norazman said a safety audit carried out on MYAirline Sdn Bhd from May 29 to June 1 for the AOC renewal, found no elements of financial distress at that point in time.

"Elements of the financial indicator checklist as per International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Documents 8335 were included in the safety audit process. As part of the safety audit, AOC holders must also provide evidence indicating financial solvency to CAAM.

"This is to ensure the air operator has the financial resources to conduct its planned operations. Should a financial issue arise, a written notification to CAAM must be made immediately to ensure no compromise to the safety of operations.

“To date, MYAirline has not submitted such notification to CAAM," he said in a statement today.

CAAM chief executive Norazman Mahmud

Norazman stressed that the sudden suspension of MYAirline's operation on Oct 12, without prior notification to CAAM, raises serious concerns about public safety and the overall integrity of civil aviation operations in the country.

"A detailed safety audit will be carried out on MYAirline during this temporary suspension to reassess the airline’s capability.

"Any violations by AOC holders will be dealt with in accordance with Civil Aviation Regulations 2016 and Civil Aviation Directives (CAD). CAAM reminds all licence holders to uphold their obligation to regulations and ensure strict compliance."

On Oct 12, MYAirline announced the suspension of its operations, citing "significant financial pressures", barely a year after its maiden flight.

The abrupt announcement shocked Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who called the company "irresponsible".

On Saturday, the airline announced that it is offering refunds to passengers affected by the suspension of its operations.

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