WORLD’S FIRST “COACH AIRWAYS” RETAIL CONCEPT STORE IN A CONVERTED BOEING 747 AT FREEPORT A'FAMOSA OUTLET, MALACCA

Went to Freeport A’Famosa Outlet to unveil the world's first Coach Airways, a unique retail concept store and café housed in a transformed 1981 Boeing 747-230B aircraft. Yes. An aircraft or plane transformed into a store which was the first in Malaysia.

Began in April 2021, saw the successful acquiring, transferring, assembling, and completing the Boeing 747 in May 2023. With a length of 231 feet 10 inches and a wingspan of 195 feet 8 inches, the Boeing 747 was once hailed as the largest civilian aircraft in the world during the late 1960s. Today, it takes on a new role as the world's first-ever Coach outlet in a Boeing 747 aircraft.

YAB Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Bin Yusoh, Chief Minister of Malacca said that Coach Airways is the latest addition to the heart of Malacca, which marks a significant milestone in the state's dedication to enhancing its tourism offerings for the public. This launch aligns with the objectives of Visit Malacca 2024 to achieve the targeted visitors. Beyond shopping, this establishment represents a symbol of luxury and prestige for all Malaysians, especially Malaccans.

YAB Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Bin Yusoh, Chief Minister of Malacca officiated the launch of Coach Airways

Datuk Julian Lau, Director of Freeport A’Famosa Outlet said that the project has been in the works for the past two years and it took an immense effort by the team to redesign this mega Boeing 747 Jumbo into an exclusive one-of-a-kind retail destination by Coach.

Datuk Julian Lau, Director of Freeport A’Famosa Outlet

He added that since the opening of Freeport A’Famosa, they have always strived to create various innovative experiences for all our visitors. This latest addition adds a feather to their cap to offer Malaysians and tourists a fun and immersive shopping experience where they can explore the cockpit, passenger and lounge cabins whilst browsing the collections from Coach.

Aviation enthusiasts and shoppers alike can prepare to be captivated; The Queen of the Sky, as the Boeing 747 is affectionately known, now reigns as the Queen of Retail, offering an extraordinary fusion of aviation history and shopping. The spacious layout of the plane allows for a comfortable and memorable shopping environment reminiscent of the golden age of air travel when luxury and elegance were emphasized.

Boarding pass was needed before we could board the plane

An entry pass resembling an air ticket was given to us upon entering the store to emulate an air travel experience right from the entrance via an air bridge. We will be able to explore the interior of the plane and its retail cabins to browse a curated selection of all-gender ready-to-wear, bags and travel accessories which was inspired by the next generation’s expressive approach to fashion.

For all the Coach collectors, good news to all of you. Coach will also release an exclusive Coach Airways Collection featuring a selection of t-shirts, a passport leather case, a wheeled carry-on luggage, and field tote and travel accessories such as luggage tags, pouches, and small wallets, printed with a limited-edition reimagination of the house’s iconic Signature.

Campbell O’Shea, General Manager, Tapestry Southeast Asia & Oceania said that the opening of Coach Airways marks not only the launch of their first retail concept of its kind but also an exciting moment for Coach as they continue to push innovation and create a space where customers can explore and interact. They are looking forward to bringing their customers this experiential retail pop-up at Freeport A'Famosa Outlet, a popular shopping destination in Malacca.

Dato’ Dr. Ammar Abd. Ghapar, Director-General, Tourism Malaysia, was also present to congratulated the management team of Freeport A’Famosa Outlet for achieving the Malaysia Book of Record’s recognition for the “First Retail Concept Store in An Airplane”, adding to the vast accolades of the state of Malacca to inspire Malaysians to excel in various fields to the extent of surpassing the world standards.

The Outlet was also awarded the “Unique Retail Experience” of 2023 by the Malaysian Association of Theme Parks & Family Attractions (MATFA) earlier this month, signifying Freeport A'Famosa Outlet as a must-visit destination where fashion, history and innovation converge to provide an unforgettable retail experience.

Coach Airways at Freeport A'Famosa Outlet is set to provide guests with a distinctive and value-added shopping experience while attracting a broader customer base and driving sales. In addition to the retail space, the aircraft will be equipped with a welcoming area, an immersive gallery, and a contemporary café, providing guests with a space to relax and indulge in refreshments while enjoying the unique ambience of the transformed aircraft.

Coach Airways is poised to become a global attraction which enchants guests with its fusion of retail and aviation, where imagination takes flight. Do not miss this out and come to COACH AIRWAYS at Freeport A’Famosa Outletlet to experience the joy of luxury.