By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, May 18: AirBorneo is expected to operate scheduled jet services to Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Jakarta and Singapore by the third quarter of 2026.
Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the State-owned airline will lease three Boeing B737-800NG aircraft for its maiden expansion beyond its Public Service Obligation (PSO) mandate.
“As a full-service regional airline in the future, AirBorneo will offer a comprehensive travel experience, including multiple cabin classes, complimentary in-flight services, checked through baggage, lounge access and seamless international connectivity through code-share partnerships and airline alliances, delivering greater comfort, flexibility and end-to-end convenience,” he said when tabling his winding-up speech in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) today.
Lee also drew a clear distinction between full-service carriers and low-cost carriers, noting that the latter operate on simplified, no-frills models with single-class seating and unbundled pricing.
He said passengers on low-cost carriers often pay separately for services such as baggage, meals, seat selection, travel insurance and other in-flight add-ons, which in some cases may even exceed the base fare, particularly for short-haul flights.
“While low-cost carriers prioritise affordability and service flexibility, full-service carriers emphasise passenger experience, network connectivity and premium travel offerings,” he added.
On airfare pricing, Lee explained that ticket prices are determined through dynamic pricing mechanisms used globally, where fares fluctuate based on demand, booking patterns, seat availability, travel seasons, fuel prices and operational costs.
He said fares typically rise during peak travel periods such as festive seasons, school holidays, major events and last-minute bookings, when lower fare classes are already sold out.
“Hence, the public is encouraged to plan their journeys and purchase air tickets well in advance, particularly during festive seasons and holiday periods, in order to secure cheaper airfares,” he pointed out.
Lee further attributed rising airfares to post-pandemic travel demand recovery, limited aircraft availability due to supply chain and maintenance constraints, higher leasing and operational costs, and increased aviation fuel prices, particularly amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
He said these factors have placed many airlines under financial pressure, with some operating on very thin margins or losses.
On this, Lee said the Sarawak government recognises public concerns over high airfares, but stressed the need for a balanced approach.
“While we must protect the interests of passengers, we must also ensure that airline services remain operationally and financially sustainable,” he emphasised. — DayakDaily
