Abang Johari speaks to reporters after the fund presentation ceremony for the construction of the Sri Satok Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PAWE). – Ukas photo
KUCHING (July 5): Sarawak’s state-owned airline AirBorneo is expected to announce its highly anticipated and competitive new airfares rates for its flight routes either next week or by mid-July.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg revealed that the upcoming announcement will feature comprehensive fare packages that include baggage allowance and in-flight meals at no extra charge.
He said the new pricing structure will cover several major routes, with a specific focus on the highly trafficked Kuala Lumpur-Kuching sector, fulfilling the state government’s pledge to provide more affordable air travel options for the people.
“I can give a little teaser. The airfare for the Kuala Lumpur-Kuching route will be cheaper, just as we have promised.
“The price will also include baggage and meals on board. Typically, airlines charge extra for baggage, but for AirBorneo, everything is already factored in, including the in-flight meal,” he said, according to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) report.
Abang Johari said this when met by reporters after officiating the fund handover ceremony for the construction of the Sri Satok Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PAWE) at the Datuk Amar Hajah Juma’ani Welfare Centre here on Sunday.
Earlier this year, Abang Johari indicated that AirBorneo is slated to commence jet aircraft operations in July 2026, marking the second phase of the state-owned airline’s expansion strategy.
The initial phase of jet operations is expected to connect Kuching to key regional hubs, namely Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Singapore, and Jakarta.
This follows the first phase of the airline’s development, which focused heavily on Rural Air Services (RAS) utilising turboprop aircraft.
Abang Johari further reiterated that the establishment and expansion of AirBorneo form a crucial component of Sarawak’s long-term strategy to fortify air connectivity, catalyse the tourism sector, attract foreign investments, and create a wider array of economic opportunities for Sarawakians.