About MASwings
MASwings: Bridging Borneo's Skies
Established on October 1, 2007, MASwings is a regional airline based in East Malaysia, operating under the Malaysia Aviation Group. Headquartered in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, the airline was created to enhance air connectivity within the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as the Federal Territory of Labuan. MASwings primarily focuses on the Rural Air Services (RAS) program, aiming to provide affordable and reliable air transport to remote and rural communities in East Malaysia.
Fleet and Operations
MASwings operates a fleet of 16 aircraft, including 10 ATR 72-500 turboprops and 6 DHC-6 Twin Otters, suitable for short-haul flights to regional airports with limited infrastructure. The airline's main hubs are located at Kota Kinabalu International Airport and Miri Airport, facilitating connections across 23 destinations in East Malaysia.
Transition to AirBorneo
In a significant development, the Sarawak government announced its intention to acquire MASwings to establish a state-owned airline. The acquisition was formally completed on January 13, 2025, with plans to rebrand MASwings as AirBorneo. This transition aims to enhance Sarawak's connectivity and expand regional routes, positioning the state as an aviation hub for Borneo and a gateway to ASEAN.
Commitment to Sustainability
MASwings has also taken steps towards environmental sustainability by planning to adopt sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) derived from microalgae. This initiative aligns with the global aviation industry's efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote greener practices.
Conclusion
MASwings has played a pivotal role in connecting the diverse landscapes of East Malaysia, providing essential air services to communities with limited access to transportation. As it transitions to AirBorneo, the airline is poised to further enhance regional connectivity and contribute to the socio-economic development of the region.