AirBorneo orders new planes as improved service and expansion loom
AirBorneo has officially announced a firm order for eight latest-generation ATR planes.
The deal, signed during the 2026 Singapore Airshow, marks the first major fleet investment by the airline since its transition from MASwings to a Sarawak-owned entity.
The purchase is a strategic cornerstone intended to modernise the Rural Air Services (RAS) and ensure the long-term sustainability of vital lifelines across Borneo.
The order comprises a versatile mix of turboprops: five ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s.
While the ATR 72-600 serves as the workhorse for high-demand regional routes, the inclusion of the smaller ATR 42-600 is critical for Sarawak and Sabah’s unique geography.
These smaller aircraft are specifically designed to operate from shorter, more constrained airfields, ensuring that even the most remote communities remain connected to urban hubs.
Furthermore, the agreement includes purchase rights for an additional four aircraft, providing the airline with the flexibility to expand into the BIMP-EAGA region as demand grows.
Valued at approximately US$196 million based on current list prices, the new fleet is scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2029.
These aircraft will systematically replace the aging fleet of eight ATR 72-500s that AirBorneo inherited from MASWings.
New plane, new tech
It is understood that by moving to the “-600” series, the airline will benefit from the most advanced avionics suite in the turboprop market, offering enhanced safety and precision in the challenging weather conditions and terrain often found in Sarawak’s interior.
Beyond operational efficiency, the purchase focuses heavily on community service. The new aircraft will be configured to support medical stretcher operations, a vital feature for emergency medical evacuations from rural areas.
Passengers can also expect a significantly improved cabin experience, featuring modern interiors and reduced noise levels compared to the outgoing fleet.
AirBorneo CEO, Megat Ardian, emphasized that this acquisition is about more than just numbers. “This investment is a commitment to the people of Sarawak and Sabah,” he stated. “By modernizing our fleet with the most efficient and reliable aircraft in their class, we are ensuring that Rural Air Services remain dependable, safe, and future-proof.”
Expansion beyond Borneo
As AirBorneo prepares for the arrival of these new turboprops planes, the airline is also eyeing the introduction of jet services as early as late 2026, positioning itself as a comprehensive regional player capable of bridging the gap between remote villages and international gateways.
Nonetheless, Megat was quoted as saying that the airline is starting from scratch, and that they (AirBorneo) will go through proper governance and proper studies, before commiting to any particular aircraft type.
Source: ATR, AviationWeek , Aerospaceglobalnews, Ainonline.com
