By Amanda L
KUCHING, July 20: AirBorneo could begin expanding into East Asia within the next one to two years as the State-owned airline builds on its regional network following the launch of services to Singapore and the planned introduction of flights to Jakarta.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the airline is exploring routes to East Asia as part of its long-term expansion plans while continuing to strengthen connectivity within Sarawak and Sabah through its Rural Air Services (RAS).
“Within beyond six months, within one to two years, we are exploring also the route to East Asia while enhancing our rural air service.
“Rural air service is our obligation. But the rest will be done on commercial basis,” he told reporters during a press conference at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 on AirBorneo’s inaugural Kuching-Kuala Lumpur flight today.
The East Asia expansion would follow AirBorneo’s inaugural Kuching-Singapore service on July 22 in conjunction with Sarawak Day and its planned launch of direct flights between Kuching and Jakarta within the next two months.
Abang Johari said the airline’s commercial expansion would go hand in hand with its commitment to maintaining RAS connectivity for rural communities in Sarawak and Sabah, which remains one of AirBorneo’s core responsibilities following its takeover of MASwings.
While the regional and international routes will be operated on a commercial basis, he stressed that the airline would continue fulfilling its public service role in connecting remote areas.
AirBorneo currently operates RAS flights across Sarawak and Sabah and has begun expanding beyond the Borneo network with the launch of its inaugural Kuching-Kuala Lumpur jet service today.
The airline is also set to commence daily flights between Kuching and Singapore on July 22 before expanding to Jakarta as it strengthens its presence in the ASEAN region ahead of its planned move into East Asia. — DayakDaily
