KUCHING – AirBorneo plans to operate six routes by the end of 2026, covering three domestic and three international destinations. The move forms part of the airline’s second phase of expansion.
Chief Executive Officer Megat Ardian Wira Mohd Aminuddin said Phase 2 of the growth plan starts in July. Regional jet operations will run from Kuching, while Kota Kinabalu and Miri remain turboprop hubs.
The early stage includes three wet lease aircraft. These aircraft serve one regional international route and two domestic routes, pending approval and slot allocation. By 2026, the airline targets six destinations with an even split between domestic and international services.
The airline plans to deploy Boeing 737-800 aircraft for the new routes. Preparations include surveillance permit applications with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia and coordination with industry partners.
The update came during the AirBorneo Iftar with media in Kuching. Megat Ardian reviewed the airline’s progress since taking over MASwings in January last year. The first phase focused on stabilising operations and transferring staff to the new airline structure.
Between January and mid-March, the airline carried close to 100,000 passengers. On-time performance reached between 89 to 90 percent. Management views the numbers as a positive start for the carrier’s operations.
AirBorneo also signed an agreement for eight new ATR 72-600 aircraft. These aircraft replace the existing ATR 500 fleet over several years. Deliveries arrive in stages, with two aircraft scheduled for 2027, four in 2028, and the remaining two in 2029.
Megat Ardian said the airline continues work on branding, marketing, and commercial planning. Final flight schedules, time slots, and destinations follow regulatory approval. Possible destinations under review include Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Industry observers link the expansion to rising demand for regional travel across East Malaysia. A mix of domestic and international routes places AirBorneo in a stronger position within the regional aviation sector. The plan also supports efforts to strengthen Sarawak’s role as a travel hub.
Through a phased strategy, AirBorneo aims to expand steadily while improving connectivity across the region. Passengers stand to gain more travel choices as the network grows.
