By Amanda L
KUCHING, Jan 14: AirBorneo will not practice fare hikes during festive seasons, with ticket prices determined strictly based on operational and fuel costs to ensure affordable and stable air travel for Sarawakians.
Speaking at the ‘Townhall 9 Tahun Bersama YAB Premier Sarawak’ held at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) in Kuching last night (Jan 13), Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state-owned airline was established with the core objective of connecting the people, rather than maximising profit, unlike conventional commercial carriers.
He said other airlines typically raise ticket prices significantly during peak periods such as Chinese New Year and Hari Raya, but AirBorneo would not adopt such a pricing model.
“We will not increase ticket prices in that manner because AirBorneo is meant to serve as a connector for Sarawakians, just like the bridges we have built to link different areas,” he said.
Addressing online debates over AirBorneo’s ticket pricing, Abang Johari clarified that fares are calculated purely based on operating and fuel costs, without excessive mark ups.
He explained that the total cost of a flight would be divided evenly according to the aircraft’s passenger capacity.
“If an aircraft can carry 90 passengers, the cost is divided by 90. As long as it covers the operational cost, that is sufficient,” he said.
Abang Johari added that one of AirBorneo’s key objectives is to help stabilise market prices, particularly for flights to Kuala Lumpur, which remains a crucial hub for healthcare and other essential services for Sarawakians. — DayakDaily
