Malaysia Airlines CEO: Ukraine war hampering return to profit

But ex-pilot Izham Ismail predicts full recovery from MH370, MH17 disasters

20220602  Malaysia Airlines CEO Izham Ismail

Malaysia Airlines CEO Izham Ismail, a former pilot, says the carrier's return to full financial health is in sight after years of struggle. (Photo by Wong Ying Xian)

P PREM KUMAR, Nikkei staff writer

KUALA LUMPUR -- Malaysia Airlines' winding road back from twin tragedies eight years ago has taken another turn, as higher fuel costs in the wake of Russia's war on Ukraine scuttle a quicker-than-expected return to profitability, the carrier's top executive told Nikkei Asia.

But Executive Director and CEO Izham Ismail, in a recent interview, touted major financial improvements that have put the airline in its strongest position in years, changes that promise to end the cash drain on Malaysia's public purse. 

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