AirBorneo May Launch Three New Sarawak City Routes
Malaysia’s Transport Ministry confirmed on 20 May 2026 that AirBorneo may submit applications to operate three intercity Sarawak routes on a commercial basis: Kuching–Sibu, Kuching–Miri and Kuching–Bintulu. The routes are currently not categorised as Rural Air Services (RAS), which is the subsidy framework under which AirBorneo has been operating since its launch in January 2026.
What AirBorneo is and how it started
AirBorneo launched on 2 January 2026 following the Sarawak state government’s acquisition of MASwings, the regional airline that had served Borneo’s interior communities for decades. The rebranded carrier initially focused on rural routes connecting remote longhouse communities across Sabah and Sarawak — routes with thin commercial margins that require government support to remain viable. The three intercity routes now under review are a step toward a broader commercial operation.
Why these routes matter for travelers
Kuching, Sibu, Miri and Bintulu are Sarawak’s four main urban centres, each a base for exploring different parts of Malaysian Borneo. Kuching is the entry point for most international visitors to Sarawak and the gateway to Bako National Park, Semenggoh Wildlife Centre and the Iban longhouse communities. Miri serves as the launch point for Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah Caves — two of Borneo’s most significant natural attractions. Sibu is the hub for Rejang River travel and central Sarawak. Bintulu gives access to Similajau National Park.
Currently, flying between these cities from Kuching typically requires booking with Malaysia Airlines (via Kuala Lumpur in some cases) or taking long road or river journeys. Commercial AirBorneo services on these city pairs, if approved and launched, would create more direct options and introduce fare competition on routes where choices are currently limited.
When routes might start
The Ministry announcement sets out a pathway — AirBorneo may apply — rather than a confirmed launch. The airline has indicated it plans to begin jet operations in the third quarter of 2026 using Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which would give it the capacity and range for these city routes. Exact launch dates have not been confirmed. We will update this article when routes and schedules are published.
Our Kuching guide covers Sarawak’s capital in detail, including transport to national parks and the best base for an extended Borneo trip. Our Kota Kinabalu guide covers Sabah and access to Mount Kinabalu. Our getting around Malaysia guide explains the current flight, bus and ferry options across Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo.