AirBorneo orders 8 ATR aircraft

AirBorneo and ATR have announced a strategic partnership to modernise Malaysia’s Rural Air Services (RAS) fleet, with AirBorneo confirming a firm order for eight ATR aircraft, including five ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s, along with purchase rights for four additional aircraft. Deliveries are planned between 2027 and 2029. This milestone supports AirBorneo’s transformation into Sarawak’s state-owned airline and its assumption of responsibility for the RAS network—a critical public service connecting remote communities across Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan. The order, finalised in late 2025, forms part of AirBorneo’s long-term fleet renewal strategy following the Sarawak government’s acquisition of MASwings in 2025 and its subsequent rebranding as AirBorneo. The airline currently operates eight ATR 72-500 aircraft inherited from MASwings. The new ATR –600 series will provide a more efficient, resilient, and modern fleet for East Malaysia’s regional air network. The introduction of the ATR 42-600 and ATR 72-600 aircraft will enable AirBorneo to: Deliver improved passenger comfort with modern cabin features Enhance operational reliability and service capability Support medical stretcher operations Ensure efficient operations across diverse regional and rural routes in Borneo The mixed fleet allows AirBorneo to right-size capacity across varying route profiles while maintaining strong commonality within the ATR family, reducing training and maintenance costs. The four purchase rights also provide flexibility for future growth, including potential regional expansion across the Brunei–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines (BIMP) East ASEAN Growth Area. Megat Ardian, CEO 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 operational capability for regional connectivity in East Malaysia. The ATR platform is proven 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.” Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR, added: “AirBorneo’s decision to invest in both the ATR 72-600 and ATR 42-600 reflects the strength and versatility of the ATR family for demanding regional operations. The ATR 42-600, with exceptional efficiency and low operating costs, is ideal for lower-density regional routes, while the ATR 72-600 offers additional capacity where needed. We are proud to partner with AirBorneo in strengthening reliable air connectivity across Borneo and the wider region.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]