Rayani Air lost experienced staff, says deputy minister

KUALA LUMPUR: The resignation of experienced staff from the board of Rayani Air was among the reasons that the Syariah-compliant airline failed to really take off.

Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Abdul Aziz Kaprawi (pic) said the company had a "fair number of experienced staff" when it presented its proposal to the government to operate an airline.

"But in later part, some of these experienced personnel left the company and that jeopardised the management of the company," Aziz told reporters at the Parliament lobby.

The airline was suspended on April 8 pending a restructuring of its operations.

Aziz said following the Rayani Air experience, the government would be more meticulous in approving the operating procedure of airlines.

"We did not overlook the factors, it was a fault with the management but we have to strengthen or implement stricter standard operating procedures of all airlines.

"Now we have the Malaysian Aviation Commission that will look into it, so it's their responsibility to make sure all airlines are financially sound," he said, adding that it was especially so in the case for a scheduled airline as compared to chartered airlines.

Aziz said although Rayani Air still possessed the operating licence, the suspension would only be lifted after the ministry sees substantial proof that it can be run without complications.