AirBorneo, Sarawak’s state-owned airline, officially signed a deal today for eight new ATR aircraft to replace its aging rural air services fleet. The order includes five ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s, with deliveries set to begin in early 2027.

The airline, which was rebranded from MASwings in 2025, aims to improve connectivity for remote communities in East Malaysia. These new-generation aircraft are designed to be more fuel-efficient and better equipped for the challenging landing conditions of Borneo’s regional airports.

CEO Megat Ardian stated that this modernization is a "key milestone" in making rural air travel safer and more reliable. The state government sees this as a vital step in boosting local tourism and ensuring that remote residents have consistent access to essential services in the cities.