KUCHING: Sarawak-owned airline AirBorneo is set to commence its jet operations in July next year as the state works to expand its international connectivity.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the airline will initially operate propeller planes such as ATR and Twin Otter before transitioning to jets.
“Although AirBorneo will start with propeller planes, we will begin jet operations in July,” he said during the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation’s 53rd anniversary corporate dinner here last night (Dec 5).
The Premier said the upgrade to jets will allow Sarawak to operate direct international flights, including to Singapore.
“I had a chance to meet the Prime Minister of Singapore, Lawrence Wong, recently. He asked if it was true that we were starting a new airline. I told him yes, starting next month.
“They have agreed to allow us to operate jets, and we want to fly to Singapore. But our plans are not limited to Singapore.
“We are also considering flights to South Korea, especially Jeju Island. Jeju Island is a geopark and a UNESCO geopark. The idea is to connect geoparks across regions, linking Sarawak’s UNESCO-recognised geopark with Jeju.
“Hopefully it becomes a reality. That is why our future is bright. Our economy is carefully planned, and it is meant for the future of our people,” he said.
Touching on AirBorneo’s cabin crew, the Premier said their uniforms will reflect Sarawak’s unique cultural identity.
He quipped that AirBorneo aims to compete with AirAsia’s uniforms.
