THE Bario STOLport in the highlands of Sarawak is set for a major upgrade, following the federal government’s approval to enhance its operational efficiency and safety.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said this long-awaited initiative aims to address passenger capacity limitations caused by runway restrictions.
Currently, the STOLport’s runway limitations enforced by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) permit only nine passengers per flight due to aircraft weight constraints.
“The upgrade, which began in September 2024 and is being implemented by the Public Work Department (PWD) Sarawak, is scheduled for completion by Mar 2026,” he said.
He said this in his ministerial winding up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here today (May 26).
“This initiative comes in response to the long-standing request to enhance operational efficiency and safety for Bario, and once completed, will significantly improve rural air access for the highland community,” he added.
The scope of work includes extending the current 671-metre runway to 930 metres, comprising a 259-metre paved extension and a 412-metre clearway.
He said that the project also involves resurfacing the existing runway, extending the runway strip, adding new line markings, installing a new windsock, and equipping the site with a new Automated Weather System (AWS).
Additional works include site clearing, earthworks, geotechnical improvements, drainage systems, fencing, turfing, and minor terminal building repairs. Upon completion, the upgraded STOLport will be able to safely accommodate aircraft carrying up to 19 passengers.
“The enhancement is expected to greatly benefit residents in Bario and surrounding rural areas by improving accessibility, supporting local development, and strengthening Sarawak’s rural air service infrastructure,” he added.
