KUCHING: The new Sarawak-owned airline set to launch in 2025 is expected to provide competitive airfare options and potentially lower ticket prices for Sarawakians and other travellers, the Sarawak Public Communications Unit reported.

According to the Political secretary of Sarawak Premier Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, this initiative is expected to provide a significant boost to local and international connectivity for the region.

Fazzrudin highlighted the potential benefits of the upcoming airline during his Hari Raya Open House event.

"The introduction of a Sarawak-owned airline could bring much-needed competition in the airline industry, which may lead to reduced flight costs, particularly on routes to and from Kuala Lumpur where tickets currently range from RM800 to RM1,000," he said.

Fazzrudin, who also serves as Tupong assemblyman, mentioned the strategic benefits this airline would offer to Sarawakians, especially students under the Sarawak Government's Sarawak Graduate Return Initiative (i-GPS).

"This programme, run by Sarawak Volunteers and the Sarawak Foundation, offers financial assistance to students for travel, which could be further complemented by more affordable flights offered by our own airline," he added.

The airline is seen not just as a transport venture but as a crucial economic development tool that will facilitate greater mobility for Sarawakians and open up the state to more business and tourism opportunities.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/1037966/upcoming-sarawak-airline-offer-more-options-and-industry-competition