AirBorneo to Transform MASwings Operations Starting January 2026
Starting in January 2026, Sarawak-owned AirBorneo will take the helm in revamping MASwings operations, marking a transformative shift in the region's air travel landscape. This strategic move aims to enhance both the quality of customer service and the overall efficiency of regional flights, ensuring a smoother and more reliable travel experience for passengers across the area.
The Ownership Transfer and Transition
Sarawak-based airline AirBorneo is set to assume full control of the operations currently managed by MASwings, including flight services, customer support, and all passenger-related functions, starting from January 1, 2026. This major transition marks the culmination of a significant ownership transfer under a sale agreement between the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and the Sarawak government.
The sale, which was finalized earlier this year on February 12, officially concluded the ownership change, with MASwings now being fully transferred to the Sarawak government. MASwings has been a key player in the aviation landscape of East Malaysia, providing crucial commuter services across the region for several years.
As part of this process, MASwings branding may still be visible during the initial transition period, while AirBorneo works on gradually introducing its new corporate identity. This phased rebranding will ensure that passengers continue to experience familiar services during the changeover, even as AirBorneo takes over the reins and implements its new approach to air travel.
MASwings: A Legacy of Regional Connectivity
MASwings, which began operations on October 1, 2007, was established as East Malaysia's first dedicated commuter airline. Its main goal was to meet the growing air travel needs of Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan, regions that have long relied on air travel due to their geographical isolation and limited infrastructure.
When MASwings began operations, it started with a modest fleet that included four 50-seat Fokker 50 aircraft and four 19-seat Twin Otter planes. These aircraft served 22 destinations across the region, connecting communities that were otherwise difficult to reach by land.
As the airline grew, it adapted to changing demands in the aviation market. In 2009, MASwings began phasing out its Fokker 50 fleet in favor of more modern and efficient ATR 72-500 aircraft. This upgrade allowed MASwings to improve its operational efficiency, enhance network reliability, and offer a more comfortable flying experience for passengers.
Over the course of its operational history, MASwings has established itself as a vital service provider in East Malaysia. By the time of its sale to the Sarawak government, the airline had successfully operated over 430,000 flights and carried more than 19 million passengers. This track record underscores the importance of MASwings in connecting the people of Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan with the rest of Malaysia and beyond.
AirBorneo's Vision for the Future
The transition to AirBorneo, set to take place in early 2026, represents a significant shift for the airline industry in East Malaysia. AirBorneo, a new airline established by the Sarawak government, will now take on the responsibility of continuing MASwings' mission of providing reliable, affordable air travel across the region.
The airline's management will work to enhance the passenger experience further, with plans to introduce more modern services, including improved customer support channels and a refreshed online booking system.
In the months leading up to the transition, AirBorneo has been preparing for the new responsibilities it will undertake. The airline's leadership is committed to ensuring a smooth and seamless transition for passengers, with particular emphasis placed on minimizing any disruption to services.
Enhanced Customer Service Channels
To help facilitate the transition, AirBorneo has set up dedicated customer service lines for any inquiries related to bookings, flights, or other services. Starting January 1, 2026, passengers will be able to contact AirBorneo's call center for assistance.
The dedicated phone lines will be available toll-free for local callers at 1-300-22-1388, while international callers can reach the airline at +60 82-537 555. This shift in customer service channels is part of AirBorneo's broader strategy to ensure a smooth changeover for existing MASwings customers, who will now have access to enhanced support under the new airline's management.
Broader Implications for Regional Aviation and Tourism
The sale and subsequent transition also have broader implications for the aviation and tourism sectors in East Malaysia. With the ownership transfer, the Sarawak government aims to strengthen its position as a key player in the regional aviation industry, bringing more attention to its local tourism offerings.
By taking control of the airline's operations, the government is expected to foster greater growth in the aviation sector, which will benefit not just the airline industry, but also the local economies of Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan.
As AirBorneo takes over from MASwings, the Sarawak government's involvement is seen as a positive step toward creating a more sustainable, regionally focused airline that can better serve the unique needs of East Malaysia. This shift is also expected to contribute to the continued development of Sarawak as an important hub for air travel, which will support regional economic development and facilitate greater connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.
For passengers, the transition represents the continuation of a trusted service provider, now under the management of a local entity with a commitment to maintaining and improving the standards of service they have come to expect. The long-term benefits of this change are expected to include more competitive pricing, enhanced customer service, and a more tailored approach to meeting the needs of the region's air travelers.
As the changeover date approaches, passengers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest updates from AirBorneo to ensure they are prepared for the new phase in East Malaysia's aviation history. With the official start of AirBorneo operations in early 2026, the airline is poised to usher in a new era of air travel in the region.
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