AirBorneo Switches to MY Code, Ends Malaysia Airlines DCS Use

Start-up regional carrier AirBorneo has completed a key operational milestone, migrating to its own departure control system (DCS) and formally adopting the ‘MY’ IATA airline code as of January 14, 2026. The move marks a clean break from legacy systems previously operated under Malaysia Airlines and signals AirBorneo’s emergence as an independent operator.

The ‘MY’ code was previously assigned to MASwings, which operated as a wholly owned subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group before being acquired by the Sarawak state government. As part of the transition, AirBorneo has discontinued use of Malaysia Airlines’ ‘MH’ code and associated DCS infrastructure that MASwings relied on prior to the ownership change.

AirBorneo confirmed that its proprietary DCS went live simultaneously across all 21 aerodromes it serves in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan. The airline emphasised that the cutover was executed as a single, system-wide activation rather than a phased rollout. “There is no staggered or partial activation, and operations will continue as usual once the cutover is completed,” the carrier said, underlining confidence in the readiness of its new operational platform.

The airline also reassured passengers that the system migration will not disrupt travel plans. All existing bookings remain valid, itineraries are unchanged, and published schedules continue to operate as planned. From a customer perspective, the transition is intended to be seamless, with no requirement for passengers to rebook or reconfirm flights.

AirBorneo formally assumed responsibility for MASwings’ operations on January 1, 2026, inheriting a fleet tailored to short-haul and remote regional flying. The carrier currently operates eight ATR 72-500 turboprops and six De Havilland Canada DHC-6-400 Twin Otters, aircraft types well suited to Borneo’s geography and the limited infrastructure at some secondary and rural airstrips.

Repainting of the inherited fleet into AirBorneo’s new livery is underway, with completion targeted for the first half of 2026. Until then, some aircraft will continue operating in transitional branding. The airline said the rebrand is progressing alongside broader efforts to establish independent commercial, operational, and digital systems following the separation from Malaysia Aviation Group.

The adoption of its own IATA code and DCS represents a foundational step for AirBorneo as it builds its identity as Sarawak’s state-backed regional airline. With full operational control now in place, the carrier is positioning itself to focus on network reliability, regional connectivity, and service continuity across East Malaysia’s underserved communities.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/airline-finance/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com