By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, April 22: Sarawak’s own boutique airline is expected to commence within three years following the green light given by the federal government, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“I would not do it if I didn’t do my homework. I have done it. It is calculated,” he said, adding that he would announce the matter sometime next month.
However, Abang Johari asked for time to enable it to become a reality, as Hornbill Skyways chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abdul Aziz Husain revealed that at least four aircraft would be needed at first.
“We are looking into purchasing mid-range jet aircraft. The moment you have a 60 per cent passenger load, then that is okay,” he said at his Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
Abang Johari also shared that he had informed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that rural air service could be costly.
“I suggested that there is no need to use twin otter aircraft that use a longer landing airstrip as now there are now new helicopters that can accommodate 20 passengers. With such helicopters, you don’t have to build an airport and can access the rural areas,” he said.
“I told the prime minister on his working visit last week that the people in the aviation industry must think outside the box. — DayakDaily
