AirBorneo Secures Five ATR 72-600s and Three ATR 42-600s at Singapore Airshow

Malaysian airline AirBorneo has placed an order for eight ATR aircraft, which includes five ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s, with options for four additional planes. The delivery of these modern aircraft is slated to occur between 2027 and 2029.

This order was announced at the outset of the Singapore Airshow 2026 and was later confirmed by Malaysia’s Sarawak Ministry of Transport on February 3, 2026.

H2: Enhancing Connectivity and Growth

“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,” declared Megat Ardian, CEO of AirBorneo.

This significant development marks a pivotal moment in AirBorneo’s evolution into Sarawak’s state-owned airline. The airline will take over the Rural Air Services (RAS) network, enhancing connections for remote communities in East Malaysia, particularly in Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan.

H3: A Strategic Fleet Renewal Plan

According to ATR, the recent order aligns with AirBorneo’s long-term fleet renewal strategy that follows the Sarawak government’s acquisition of MASwings. The airline is currently operating eight ATR 72-500 aircraft, which were acquired from MASwings.

“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,” stated ATR CEO Nathalie Tarnaud Laude.

H3: Features and Flexibility

ATR highlighted that the new aircraft come equipped with advanced avionics, modern navigation systems, and superior cabin comfort. They are also designed to facilitate medical stretcher operations, ensuring reliable performance on various regional and rural routes in Borneo.

“The ATR 42-600, known for its exceptional efficiency and low operating costs, is particularly suited for lower-density regional routes, while the ATR 72-600 offers the necessary capacity where it is needed,” Laude further explained.

The agreement also includes options to purchase four additional aircraft, paving the way for future expansion beyond the RAS network, including potential growth within the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area.

What are your thoughts on this exciting development for AirBorneo and its impact on regional connectivity?