KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 31 -- Ascend Airways Malaysia has cleared the final regulatory hurdle to take off next month after securing its full Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and Air Service Permit (ASP).

The Kuala Lumpur-based airline, part of Avia Solutions Group - the world's largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance) provider - will begin cargo and charter operations in Malaysia and across South-east Asia, with passenger services slated for early 2026.

Ascend Airways Malaysia received its Conditional Air Service Permit in 2024 before completing the certification process this year. The carrier's first aircraft, a Boeing 737-800SF, will support initial operations, with fleet expansion planned through 2026.

In a statement yester...