Alitalia’s questionable move to “Newco” will only work if all staff are laid-off; while lessors say think again to MAG

Following the high-profile drubbing of lessors and their products by Malaysian Airlines Group (MAG) last week and the threat to fold Malaysian Airlines and move all the assets into Firefly, the CEO Izham Ismail reaffirmed on Saturday that the group would have “no choice but to shut it down” if lessors decide against backing the restructuring plan. However, the bulk of aircraft and engine lessors have collectively stated that they will continue to challenge MAG’s plans. Will the Malaysian government now blink first in this stand-off? They may have to if they want to save their flag carrier (again). Meanwhile,