KUCHING – AirBorneo has reaffirmed its pledge to maintain affordable ticket prices across its Rural Air Services (RAS) network, ensuring continuity of accessibility for communities in Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan.
The airline, which officially takes over operations from MASwings on 1 January 2026, confirmed that all routes during its initial phase will remain under the RAS framework.
This arrangement mirrors the current MASwings coverage and is supported by subsidies provided through the Federal Government’s RAS Agreement.
In a statement released on Monday, AirBorneo emphasised that no fare increases have been introduced compared to MASwings’ existing rates.
The airline explained that the RAS Agreement is designed to balance affordability with operational sustainability, ensuring that rural communities continue to benefit from reliable air connectivity.
“The fare structure is calibrated to support the continuity and sustainability of operations, taking into account the subsidy to be provided by the public service obligation agreement with the Federal Government’s RAS Agreement,” the airline noted.
AirBorneo launched its official booking platform on 10 December 2025, with tickets available for purchase from 14 January 2026.
The move marks a significant milestone in the transition of services, providing passengers with a seamless booking experience ahead of the operational handover.
Looking ahead, the airline confirmed that any adjustments to fares will only be made once a new RAS agreement has been finalised with the Federal Government.
This collaborative approach, it said, will ensure that pricing remains fair while safeguarding the sustainability of operations.
Beyond the RAS network, AirBorneo is preparing to introduce non-RAS routes in the future. For these services, the airline is developing a pricing strategy that balances operational costs with passenger value.
The plan aims to deliver affordable fares while enhancing connectivity, reliability and punctuality across East Malaysia.
The airline also encouraged the public to consult the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) website for further information on RAS policies.
Passengers can access updates and make bookings directly via AirBorneo’s official website at www.airborneo.com, or contact customer service for assistance.
With its commitment to affordability and accessibility, AirBorneo’s entry into the market signals continuity for rural air travel while laying the groundwork for expanded services in the years ahead.
