Residents of Sibu have expressed their dissatisfaction regarding the high airfares set by AirBorneo for its routes. Many feel that the recently established airline has not yet provided the affordable travel options they anticipated.
Frankie Ting, chairman of the Sarawak Tourist Association’s Sibu branch, emphasized that it is crucial for the government to consider offering subsidies for AirBorneo’s fares. This move could aid in maintaining the airline’s long-term sustainability.
Community Concerns
“Such support is essential to cover operational costs and ensure that the airline remains viable,” Ting stated. He pointed out that the elevated fares are expected due to AirBorneo’s recent entry into the aviation market and the unpredictable nature of flight occupancy, which varies with travel seasons and holidays.
Ting further mentioned, “In my opinion, the government should provide some form of subsidy to keep fares competitive with other airlines and prevent AirBorneo from incurring losses.”
High Expectations
He acknowledged that it is premature to evaluate the airline’s overall benefit to the people of Sarawak, yet there is a strong hope that it will positively impact the regional aviation sector.
Dr. Gregory Hii, a sports entrepreneur, noted that AirBorneo will commence operations with several intra-Borneo routes due to its limited fleet capacity. He believes this will help increase the available seating options, which are currently monopolized by AirAsia.
Despite the higher fares—attributed to AirBorneo not being a low-cost carrier—Hii is optimistic that ticket prices will be adjusted after the airline’s initial phase to better compete with others in the market.
Customer Service and Market Viability
Regardless of pricing, he stressed the importance of AirBorneo providing excellent customer service, which includes timely departures and a friendly staff.
“I wish the operator all the success as an airline serving the Borneo states,” he added.
Businessman Ting Huat Wei expressed skepticism about the airline’s viability unless there is a reevaluation of fares. He shared his disappointment after checking AirBorneo’s website, where he found one-way fares from Sibu to Kuching priced at RM213 and from Sibu to Kota Kinabalu at RM554.
Public Sentiment
“These prices are even higher than those of other airlines, raising the question: what’s the fuss about?” he remarked, urging government intervention to make fares more accessible.
Irene Yong, a retiree, echoed these concerns, expressing that frequent travelers are hopeful for better pricing in the future.
“Most Sarawakians had hoped that AirBorneo would finally make air travel more affordable. We have always faced high prices for both domestic and international flights,” she stated. “For now, I’m taking a wait-and-see approach.”
AirBorneo, previously known as MASwings and now under Sarawak ownership, is nearing the completion of its preparations for its inaugural flights, which aim to improve air services in rural areas and enhance connectivity throughout Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan.
The post ‘Too expensive’: AirBorneo airfares draw public frustration among Sibu folks appeared first on Borneo Post Online.
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Danny H is a real estate negotiator in Miri, specializing in residential and commercial properties. He provides trusted guidance, updated listings, and professional support through MiriProperty.com.my to help clients make confident property decisions.
