AirBorneo and ATR has announced a new order for 8 ATR aircraft to boost the Malaysian regional carrier's fleet.
AirBorneo and ATR has announced a new order for 8 ATR aircraft to boost the Malaysian regional carrier's fleet.
The agreement for the 8 ATR aircraft comprises of 5 ATR 72-600s and 3 ATR 42-600s with purchase rights for four additional aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2029.
With a current fleet of 14 aircraft – including 8 older ATR 72-500 aircraft – AirBorneo's order is part of its long-term fleet renewal strategy following the acquisition of MASwings by the Sarawak government and rebranding to AirBorneo.
According to ATR, the newly ordered aircraft will feature advanced avionics, modern navigation technologies, and improved cabin comfort. Medical stretcher operations will also be supported as the aircraft will be used across diverse regional and rural route environments in Borneo. Along with the fleet commonality, the four aircraft purchase rights can help in potential regional expansion within the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area.
“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,” said Megat Ardian, Chief Executive Officer of AirBorneo. “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.”
“AirBorneo’s decision to invest in both the ATR 72-600 and ATR 42-600 reflects the strength and versatility of the ATR family and its suitability for demanding regional operations,” said Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR. “The ATR 42-600, with its exceptional efficiency and low operating costs, is ideally suited for serving lower-density regional routes, while the ATR 72-600 provides additional capacity where it is needed. We are proud to partner with AirBorneo in strengthening reliable air connectivity across Borneo and the wider region.”
Established in 2007 as MASwings, the now Sarawak government-backed AirBorneo serves 21 destinations with primary bases in Kota Kinablu and Miri.
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