By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Dec 5: AirBorneo is on track to take off next month with rural air services, before moving into regional jet operations by July 2026.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said AirBorneo’s debut will begin with turboprop aircraft as part of its rural service commitment.
“Next month, AirBorneo will start flying. We will use propeller aircraft first, and in July we will begin jet operations,” he said when speaking at the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) Corporate Dinner this evening.
In a light-hearted tone, he further said that the airline is still finalising uniform designs for its crew.
“We want to compete with AirAsia, but the uniforms will not be too revealing. We have our own culture,” he quipped.
Recounting a conversation with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during a recent meeting, Abang Johari said the republic had shown strong interest in Sarawak’s new airline.
“They asked, ‘Is it true you are going to have a new airline?’ So I said yes, starting next month,” he said.
He added that Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who was also present, has agreed to AirBorneo operating jet services including flights to Singapore.
Beyond Singapore, the Premier said Sarawak is also targeting jet services to South Korea, specifically Jeju Island.
Calling Jeju a global geopark, Abang Johari said the route complements Sarawak Delta Geopark’s upcoming recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark.
“Connect the geopark with the geopark. If the Korean tourists come here, they will land here and perhaps play golf in Damai. Hopefully this will become a reality,” he stated. — DayakDaily
