KUCHING: Sarawak's state-owned airline, AirBorneo, is expected to announce more competitive new fare rates for its flight routes next week or by the middle of this month, including fare packages that encompass baggage and in-flight meals at no extra charge.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, said the announcement involves several major routes, particularly the Kuala Lumpur-Kuching flight, in line with the state government's commitment to offering more affordable fares to the people.

"I can give a little hint. The Kuala Lumpur-Kuching flight fares will be cheaper, just as we promised.

"The price will also include baggage and in-flight meals because airlines usually impose extra charges for baggage, but for AirBorneo, everything has been factored in, including meals on board," he said.

He said this when met by reporters after the Handover Ceremony of the Construction Fund for the Sri Satok Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PAWE) Building at the Datuk Amar Hajah Juma’ani Welfare Centre here on Sunday.

Earlier this year, the Sarawak Premier informed that AirBorneo will commence jet aircraft operations in July 2026 as the second phase of expansion for the Sarawak state-owned airline.

Initial operations are expected to involve routes from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Singapore, and Jakarta, following the first phase which focused on Rural Air Services (RAS) using turboprop aircraft.

He explained that the development of AirBorneo is part of the Sarawak government's long-term strategy to reinforce air connectivity, boost the tourism sector, attract investments, and create more economic opportunities for the people. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Ahmad Daniel Faiz
Photos by: Muhd Zulfadhli Ahmad Sharir
Translator: Ryan Lim