NEW AIRLINE - AirBorneo commenced operations on 2 January 2026 with its inaugural flights departing from Kuching International Airport. Initial services were operated using turboprop aircraft, including the DHC-6-400 and ATR 72-500, following the transfer of the airline from MASwings to the Sarawak government.

While the legal transfer is complete, passengers will notice a gradual transition in branding. Sarawak’s Minister for Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, confirmed that the MASwings brand will remain visible on some airframes and ground facilities for approximately six months as the fleet is progressively repainted with the new AirBorneo livery.

Fleet and Future Jet Operations

The airline currently operates a fleet of 14 turboprop aircraft, comprising eight ATR 72-500s and six Viking Air DHC-6-400 Twin Otters. However, the 2026 roadmap includes a significant technological leap. 

The Sarawak government has already initiated talks for jet aircraft acquisition (specifically evaluating Embraer E2 and Airbus A220 platforms), with jet-powered services to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Jeju Island (South Korea) projected to begin in July 2026.