KUCHING: Just days after AirBorneo officially transitioned its flight code from MH to MY on January 14, passengers at Kuching International Airport are adjusting smoothly to the change, with many describing their travel experience as familiar, clearly guided and even emotionally meaningful.
A walk through the check-in counters and departure gates reveals little disruption to the usual airport rhythm.
Digital flight information displays show the MY code alongside AirBorneo branding, while signage across the terminal helps guide passengers through check-in, security screening and boarding.
For most travellers, the change in flight code has not affected their confidence or understanding of the travel process.
Mohd Nurafiq, 42, from Samarahan, said his check-in experience felt no different from previous flights.
“Operationally, it’s still the same. Check-in was fast and easy, and the baggage handling is still familiar. Even the equipment and processes still carry the MASwings name, so it doesn’t feel foreign,” he said.
He added that airport signage, including flight codes and boarding times displayed on the screens, was clear and easy to understand.
“So far, everything is bright and clear. You can understand it easily,” he said, noting that the transition did not cause confusion or anxiety.
As a frequent flyer, Nurafiq said the change in flight code did not affect his confidence in the airline.
“For me, it’s smooth. The experience feels the same as usual, so I’m confident flying with AirBorneo,” he added.
For Syahmi Fakri, 25, who was travelling to Mulu for work, the journey marked a significant milestone.
His flight represented one of the early AirBorneo services operating under the MY flight code, following the final MASwings flight on the Kuching to Mulu route.
“This is something new for me. When I flew from Kuching to Mulu earlier, it was still MASwings. Now, seeing the new code is a new experience,” he said.
Despite the novelty, Syahmi said the transition was seamless.
“In terms of flight information and schedules, everything is still the same. The only difference is the code. The boarding gate, waiting area and check-in process all feel familiar,” he added.
He said that with only two flights operating that day, the situation was not confusing at all, as flight information displays were clear, and staff was available to guide passengers when needed.
“The screens and announcements helped a lot. Maybe the only thing that really changed was the staff and what was displayed on the screen,” he shared.
More than just a procedural change, Syahmi described an emotional connection to the airline.
“Before boarding, I felt excited. Once I was on board, I felt proud, because this is our own local airline,” he said, adding that the experience gave him greater confidence in AirBorneo’s future.
Meanwhile, Salehuddin Fikri, 29, who had also just landed in Kuching from Mulu, acknowledged that the change in flight code initially caused some uncertainty.
“At first, yes, there was some confusion. We’re so used to seeing MH for MASwings,” he said.
However, he said passengers were informed early about the transition from MASwings to AirBorneo, which helped reduce uncertainty.
“We were already notified beforehand, so we took note of it early,” he added.
“Even before flying back to Kuching, I asked the AirBorneo staff whether the check-in and luggage system would still be the same.”
According to Sallehudin, the staff responded professionally and clearly, assuring passengers that the system remained unchanged.
“The cooperation from the staff was excellent. Their explanations were clear and direct, and the service on board was very good,” he reiterated. “
I really want to praise the AirBorneo crew on that first flight from Mulu to Kuching.”
Beyond operational efficiency, Salehuddin said AirBorneo carries symbolic importance for Sarawak.
“I never imagined that Sarawak would have its own airline. We are the first state in Malaysia to have this,” he said, crediting the initiative to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the airline not only creates job opportunities for Sarawakians but also elevates Sarawak’s presence on the global stage.
“When the Premier mentioned future international routes, it shows forward thinking. It’s something outside the box,” he added.
Overall, passengers interviewed said AirBorneo’s MY flight code transition has been well managed, with clear signage, familiar systems and attentive staff ensuring continuity in the travel experience.
For many, the change represents more than a new flight code. It marks the beginning of a new chapter for Sarawak’s homegrown airline.
