The Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom) today announced that it has revoked Rayani Air’s Air Service Licence (ASL), as the airline had breached the conditions of its ASL and lacks the financial and management capacity to continue operating as a commercial airline.
“As a consequence, Rayani Air can no longer operate as a commercial airline, with effect from today,” the commission said in a statement.
It added that Rayani had not provided “satisfactory responses” to a show cause letter issued against them, dated May 25.
Despite the revocation, Mavcom said Rayani Air is still liable to refund its customers.
“Customers who have purchased tickets with Rayani Air but were not able to go on their journey may lodge a complaint with the company and seek a refund.
“In the event consumers are not able to obtain their refunds, consumers can file a civil suit for those refunds,” said the commission, adding that alternatively, consumers may also lodge a formal complaint with them.
The commission’s executive chairman, Gen (Rtd) Abdullah Ahmad said Rayani Air’s case was a “reminder” that operating a scheduled commercial airliner is an “exceedingly challenging undertaking” that requires a high degree of planning, financial depth, operational know-how and execution capability.
Mavcom which began operations on March 1, 2016, is responsible for airline licensing, airport charges, route allocation, dispute resolution and consumer protection, among others.