We were so close to it, but yet missed our first chance to fly with MASWING last December. Out of a blue change in our itinerary. However, we grabbed our first experience flying in this twin engines 68 seaters in January 2012, from Sibu to Kota Kinabalu. 90 minutes in the air, we crossed the territory of Bintulu, Miri, Brunei, and Labuan, before we landed at Kota Kinabalu. It was an unexpectedly enjoyable trip.
Far back in 1990s, our experience with twin propellers Forker Friendship was terrible. Rocky, hot and sweaty, narrow and suffocating cabin, and the list went on. Time passed and things changed. Now, the ATR 72-500 aircraft offers a far much better experience. Although it is propeller-powered, the aircraft is nevertheless less noisy, relatively stable (thanks to the good weather), wider cabin, nice and sweet stewardess (as consistence as other Malaysia Airlines services), and above all, very comfy seats, which fit well to our average Asian sitting posture. The air conditioning system worked well and it was cooling in the craft (although it was quite warm in the first five minutes after boarding).
17 thousands above the sea level, we were served with delighting refreshment, followed by a cup of tea. While munching our sandwich, we enjoyed a 30 minutes videos presentation, mostly focused on the tourism and information about Sarawak and Sabah.
Video presentation is the last thing to expect in this twin propellers powered flight.
Our refreshment on the aircraft (upper row). Cannot be considered spacious, but there is definitely enough room to stretch.
Beautiful? Sweet? The definition might be varied. However, the stewardess defined herself with good service.
The scene 17 thousands above the sea level.
Kota Kinabalu can be clearly seen in this steady aerial view.
We were unexpectedly greeted by two cuties a few minutes before the captain announced the descending.
Although it is a domestic airline, providing flights connecting cities and towns within Sabah and Sarawak, with a very humble-looking fleet, MASWING is indeed a world class airline. No doubt, we will fly with the airline again, and again.
For more information about our trip in Sabah and Sarawak, please go to All Our Destinations. More stories about Kota Kinabalu and Sibu are available at: