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The launch was hailed as a major step forward in strengthening Sarawak’s transport infrastructure by Sarawak Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, who described the occasion as a transformative moment for the state.

“The launch of AirBorneo marks a significant milestone in advancing Sarawak’s transport infrastructure and reinforces the state’s commitment to improving connectivity across Sabah and Sarawak and beyond,” he told a press conference after launching AirBorneo’s inaugural flights at the Kuching International Airport here on Friday.

Lee said through the airline, the Sarawak government will continue to provide essential rural air services across Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan, adding that during the transition period, operations will continue as usual with safety and reliability as top priorities.

“It has been designed with a dual mandate to operate with commercial discipline and sound governance while fulfilling an essential public service role in keeping our communities connected,” he said.

He added that while rural air services remain capital-intensive operationally and financially, the airline will progressively expand into selected regional routes.

“This expansion will be guided by aircraft availability, market demand, route sustainability and applicable bilateral air service agreements to ensure prudent growth and long-term viability,” he said.

Lee noted that AirBorneo is still in the early stages following the acquisition of MASwings and the receipt of its air operating licence, adding that dedicated teams and task forces have been formed to study long-term cost optimisation, maintenance efficiency and financial sustainability.

“We have just obtained the air operating licence, and AirBorneo is now the legal owner following the acquisition of MASwings. Give us some time, and we will work this out,” he said when asked about how the airline plans to minimise costs to sustain operations in the long run.

Meanwhile, AirBorneo chairman Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki emphasised the airline’s broader mission beyond commercial operations.

“AirBorneo is proud to connect Sabah and Sarawak like never before, opening new doors for economic opportunities and revitalising travel within the region. Beyond being a commercial airline, it carries a public-service mandate to keep our rural communities connected,” he said.

With the commencement of flights under its own brand, AirBorneo is expected to play an important role in supporting economic growth, improving accessibility for rural communities, and strengthening air connectivity within Sarawak and the wider region.

At the launch of its inaugural flight, AirBorneo introduced its official cabin crew uniform which was inspired by Sarawak’s rich heritage and crafted for the skies.