KUCHING: Sarawak's new state-owned airline AirBorneo should be given time to adjust its fares after taking over from MASwings Sdn Bhd, says Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The state Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister called for patience and understanding among the public during this initial period.
"The aircraft haven't even started flying, and people are already complaining. Give it a chance," he told reporters on Friday (Dec 12).
Abdul Karim was responding to public dissatisfaction with high airfares on Airborneo's newly launched website.
He said many factors must be considered when pricing airfares, including sustainability and competitiveness.
"There is no point in bringing the price down to the minimum until it's difficult for AirBorneo to sustain its operations.
"There has to be a balance," he said.
AirBorneo was expected to start flying next month once its takeover of MASwings is completed by Dec 31.
It would commence operations with the existing rural air service routes in Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan.
The airline, which launched its website and call centre on Wednesday (Dec 10), said all existing MASwings tickets and bookings remain valid, with no changes to flight times and dates.
It also said customers purchasing tickets for flights on or before Jan 13, 2026 should do so on the MASWings website at www.maswings.com.my.
For travel on or after Jan 14, tickets must be purchased via AirBorneo’s website at www.airborneo.com or call centre at 1-300-22-1388.
