MASwings has unveiled its first three Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) routes as the community airline positions itself as a regional aviation player. Tawau and Tarakan will become one of the major routes.

This comes as a very good news to folks in Malaysia and Indonesia who have been urging both sides to reinstate the service about 2 years ago.

Tawau-Tarakan flight used to operate many years ago by now defunct Bouraq Indonesia. Currently, the only way to get to Tarakan from Tawau is through boat or ferry via Nunukan in East Kalimantan.

This route will be operated by MASwings’ ATR72-500 turboporp plane which could accommodate 72 passengers. There will only be economy seats available for now. The flight will operate three times a week.

Potentially, you can also fly direct to Bali from Tarakan. This seems like a great alternative for travellers.

If you plan to get an Indonesian Visa in Tawau be sure to check here for the new location as many guide books have outdated information.

Tawau’s new airport which is located about 33km from the town centre will become an international airport once again. Hopefully this route will reach more than 80% capacity.