AirBorneo Modernizes Regional Fleet with ATR Order
SINGAPORE—Malaysia’s AirBorneo has confirmed a firm order for eight ATR turboprops, a move signaling the airline’s long-term fleet strategy following its recent rebranding. The order, unveiled on the first day of the Singapore Airshow, comprises five ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s.
The agreement, finalized in late 2025, also includes purchase rights for four additional ATR aircraft, providing options for future fleet expansion. Deliveries are scheduled to take place between 2027 and 2029, according to a joint statement released by AirBorneo and ATR.
This order represents a significant upgrade for AirBorneo, which currently operates eight older-generation ATR 72-500s inherited from MASwings. The airline was divested to the Sarawak state government in 2025 after previously operating as a subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group under the name MASwings.
Alongside the ATR 72-500s, AirBorneo also took over MASwings’ fleet of eight DHC-6-400 Twin Otters and its Rural Air Services network. This network provides crucial regional and rural routes connecting communities in Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan in East Malaysia. The new ATR aircraft are intended to modernize and strengthen this vital public service.
ATR states that the new aircraft are equipped to support medical evacuation operations, enhancing their versatility. The mixed fleet of ATR 42-600s and ATR 72-600s is designed to provide AirBorneo with greater flexibility in matching capacity to diverse route profiles, while benefiting from the commonality within the ATR family.
The introduction of the new-generation ATR –600 series will form the backbone of a more efficient and resilient Rural Air Services operation for East Malaysia. The aircraft feature advanced avionics, modern navigation technologies, and improved cabin comfort.
AirBorneo is also planning to convert one of its existing ATR72-500 aircraft for cargo transport, intending to use it to transport agricultural products and livestock within the region, according to the Premier of Sarawak.
This strategic partnership between AirBorneo and ATR aims to modernize Malaysia’s Rural Air Services fleet, ensuring continued connectivity for remote and underserved communities.
