The airline, which is barely a year old, was fined RM380,000.

In a statement, Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom) executive chairman Abdullah Ahmad said the airline pleaded guilty to carrying passengers on a non-scheduled journey between Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi.

Abdullah said any airline that did not possess a valid licence was not allowed to operate in Malaysia.

For an airline to operate commercially, it needs an Air Service Licence (ASL) and ASP issued by Mavcom.

Airline operators also need an Air Operator Certificate (AOC), issued by the Department of Civil Aviation.

In July, Mavcom rejected Suasa Airlines’ application to operate a non-scheduled commercial flight from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi as it did not have a valid ASP.

However, on the same day, Suasa Airlines flew a “demonstration flight” anyway, leading the commission and the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) to investigate them.

“Mavcom would like to stress the importance of complying with the laws and regulations, which is a fundamental requirement for participation in the industry.

“It is necessary for airlines to have all regulatory approvals in place before operations, as required not only by Malaysian laws, but according to international standards and practices.”

He said the stringent steps taken by Mavcom were ultimately to safeguard consumers.

It will stand firm and take action against offenders who do not comply with the industry laws, he added.