AirBorneo and ATR have announced a “strategic partnership” to modernise Malaysia’s Rural Air Services fleet with a firm order for eight aircraft. The agreement, finalised in late 2025, includes five ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s, with additional purchase rights for four aircraft.
The move follows the Sarawak government’s 2025 acquisition and rebranding of MASwings as AirBorneo. The new fleet is scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2029 to replace eight older ATR 72-500 aircraft currently in operation. These new-generation planes are intended to serve the RAS network connecting remote communities in Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan.
The aircraft will feature modern avionics and cabin enhancements, including the capability to support medical stretcher operations. The mixed fleet approach is designed to allow the airline to adjust capacity across different route profiles and explore potential expansion within the East ASEAN Growth Area.
Megat Ardian, Chief Executive Officer of AirBorneo, said: “This partnership with ATR marks a major milestone in AirBorneo’s commitment to delivering reliable, safe and modern air services for the communities we serve. Our new ATR -600 fleet will significantly strengthen the Rural Air Services network by offering improved comfort, greater efficiency and the operational capability required for regional connectivity in East Malaysia. The ATR platform has consistently proven to be the most suitable aircraft for our operating environment, and upgrading to the latest -600 series ensures we can continue providing essential connectivity while preparing AirBorneo for long-term growth.”
PHOTO: AirBorneo
AirBorneo and ATR have announced a strategic partnership to modernize Malaysia’s Rural Air Services fleet through a firm order for eight aircraft.
