Kuching: Sarawak-owned airline, AirBorneo, intends to start flights linking East Malaysia with Peninsular Malaysia as early as this year, before expanding to regional destinations in Southeast Asia in 2027.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah stated that the airline's expansion would be implemented in phases, in line with fleet availability, regulatory requirements, and board approval. Currently, AirBorneo operates within Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan, continuing the Rural Air Services (RAS) previously run by MASwings. The airline plans to prioritize connecting Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia once larger aircraft become available.
Abdul Karim highlighted that a bigger aircraft is necessary to operate beyond Sarawak, especially to Peninsular Malaysia destinations like Kuala Lumpur. The airline currently operates eight ATR and six Twin Otter aircraft, which are suitable for rural and short-haul services but not for longer routes. In the next year, at least three jet aircraft are planned, subject to board approval and availability.
AirBorneo's expansion plans include reaching regional Southeast Asian destinations such as Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, and the Philippines from 2027, with wider expansion considered in later phases. Abdul Karim mentioned that the airline aims to position itself as a strategic infrastructure for Sarawak, similar to government-backed airlines in other regions, with returns measured through economic and tourism impact rather than profitability.
AirBorneo's chief executive officer, Megat Ardian Wira Mohd Aminuddin, stated that the airline's management is finalizing its network and fleet plans, which will be presented to the board for approval in stages. The focus is on serving the community, strengthening regional connectivity, and building a resilient and sustainable airline with Sarawak at its core. Megat Ardian also mentioned plans for future community engagements once the plans become more concrete and board approval is secured.