MASwings : Green Journey

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What exactly does “Carbon Offset” mean?

An offset simply means an action that compensates for something else. For example, while Company A operates in a way that emits carbon into the atmosphere, Company B operates in a way that absorbs carbon content from the air. This way, Company B offsets an amount of the carbon released into the atmosphere by Company A .

2. What is the MASwings Carbon Offset Programme?

MASwings takes full responsibility for the carbon that is released into the air through the flights that we operate. Although we're taking steps to reduce this amount - you can help as well, by participating in the carbon offset programme. The carbon offset calculator calculates the amount of carbon that is released into the atmosphere for a certain journey that you have taken (or are about to take), and allows you to make a contribution that will be used to offset the amount of carbon emitted.

We must stress here though that the carbon offset programme doesn't solve the earth's climate problems. It's just a small step that both MASwings and you can do together to help make a small contribution to a bigger solution.

3. What role does MASwings play in its Carbon Offset Programme?

It will be awfully selfish of us if we just put the calculator up and wait for our passengers to do all the contributing. MASwings, together with Firefly and Malaysia Airlines will be contributing through the programme for all the traveling done by the staff of the three companies.

4. Is it compulsory for me to participate?

Participation is absolutely voluntary. We strongly encourage it, but it's really up to you.

5. How is the calculation done?

Carbon offsets for flights are calculated differently from site to site as there is no industry standard at this point of time. The formula that we have chosen to adopt is a simple one and is based on the number of block hours, distance and amount of fuel burnt for each sector that is flown. The average amount of fuel burnt for each sector is multiplied by a carbon factor to derive the amount of carbon emitted that can be offsetted. The result is then multiplied by the average cost of carbon and divided by the average load factor for that route to get an estimate of how much an individual would need to contribute in order to offset the amount of carbon emissions calculated.

6. How does aircraft emissions affect the environment?

3.15kg of Carbon Dioxide is emitted for every kilogram of fuel burnt and this contributes to climate change by adding to the gases trapped within the atmosphere causing the earth's temperature to increase. Air transport is responsible for 2% of the total Carbon Dioxide emitted

7. Can I contribute cash?

Unfortunately, at this point in time - no. The only way to make a contribution currently, is through our website.

8. Where does my money go?

Your money is deposited in a trust fund and used for a number of nature conservation projects and efforts to counter the carbon emissions in Malaysia run by the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM). Malaysia Airlines has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. FRIM also manages selected United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) endorsed projects in Malaysia.

These projects aim at protecting and preserving the forests of Malaysia. While many carbon offset programmes fund tree planting initiatives, we have learnt that tree planting alone is not quite enough to fight climate change. The forests of Malaysia should be recognized as a live, fully functioning ecosystem –from the soil that the forests thrive on, to the insects that inhabit in the leaves of the tree crowns. The well preserved forest is a provider of many ecological services that helps keep the planet running. It is FRIMs main objective to keep these natural rainforests of Malaysia well preserved and protected.

9. Can I make a contribution for more than one person if I traveled in a group?

Yes, you can make payment for up to 9 passengers.

10. Can I make a contribution to offset the carbon emitted for a one-way journey?

Yes, you can make such a contribution, or you can opt to contribute for a return trip. It's entirely up to you. Conversely, even if you do wish to make a contribution on your own – without using the calculator, that's fine too. All you need to do is to click on the “Contribute Any Amount” button.

11. Do I get a receipt for my contribution?

Yes, you do. A printable receipt will be available at the end of the transaction

12. Will all of my contribution go to the fund?

96% of your contribution will go the fund, while 4% will be deducted as an administration fee.

13. Is my contribution refundable?

Unfortunately, not. All contributions for this carbon offset programme is non-refundable.

14. Can I make a contribution after my flight?

You can make a contribution at any time that you like, be it before the flight, after the flight or even if you have not taken a flight, but want to make a contribution anyway.