AirBorneo will start independent operations in January, replacing MASwings on rural routes, with plans for regional jet expansion later in 2026.
KUCHING: AirBorneo is expected to commence independent operations in January next year, taking over the existing Rural Air Services (RAS) in Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan.
Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said the airline is planned to expand to regional jet operations towards the end of the year, depending on aircraft availability, airport slots allocation and regulatory approvals.
”The takeover of MASwings Sdn Bhd is expected to be completed by Dec 31, 2025, following the Share Purchase Agreement signed on Feb 12, 2025,” he said during the winding-up session for the ministry at the State Legislative Assembly sitting here today.
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He said that on Aug 21, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg unveiled AirBorneo’s ‘Wing of Unity’ logo with the tagline ‘Borneo for You’, reflecting Sarawak’s identity and vision to strengthen connectivity.
In another development, Lee said Sarawak’s international connectivity continues to grow with the recent launch of the Haikou, China to Kuching scheduled charter service by 9Air, while the Shenzhen, China to Kuching charter by Loong Air is scheduled to commence soon.
”My ministry will continue to work closely with airlines and partner agencies to secure more direct international routes, enhancing Sarawak’s global connectivity and expanding economic opportunities for the state,” he said.
Lee added that up to the third quarter of this year, Sarawak recorded 112,625 aircraft movements and 9.07 million passengers, representing a 15 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2024.
He said that over the same period, Sarawak handled 49,895 tonnes of air cargo, which is a notable 15 per cent increase from the 42,381 tonnes recorded in the corresponding period last year.
”Sarawak also received 51 weekly international flights and an average of 551 weekly domestic flights from other Malaysian states.
”Kuching continues to be the main gateway with 268 flights weekly, followed by Miri (144), Sibu (79), Bintulu (48), Limbang (three), Lawas (two) and Mulu (seven),” he said.
He also said that within Sarawak, an average of 684 weekly flights connected major cities and rural areas under the RAS, with Miri handling 190 flights, Kuching (164), Sibu (69) and Bintulu (59). – Bernama
