AirAsia opens new routes to boost connectivity to tourist destinations
AirAsia Indonesia, a low-cost carrier, has officially launched four new routes that also bolster connectivity of tourist destinations in Makassar as the East Indonesia Region (KTI) hub. The routes run from Surabaya to Makassar, with onward services to Palu, Luwuk and Kendari, strengthening connectivity for tourist destinations on Java and the East Indonesia region.
‘Opening the Surabaya–Makassar route, followed by Palu, Luwuk and Kendari, strengthens connectivity of tourist destinations on Java and KTI,’ said Minggus Gandeguai, General Manager of Angkasa Pura Indonesia at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, in Makassar, on Saturday.
He described the opening of these routes as a positive step in reinforcing inter-city connectivity within KTI, while supporting air travel ahead of the peak season for Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri. He noted that the additional flight services further reinforce Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport’s role as a passenger distribution hub in Eastern Indonesia and are expected to deliver a multiplier effect for regional economic growth and the tourism sector. The connectivity is expected to make mobility for residents and tourists between regions easier and more integrated.
Eddy Krismeidi, Head of Indonesia Affairs & Policy at Indonesia AirAsia, said the opening of these routes forms part of the airline’s commitment to expanding the domestic flight network, particularly towards KTI. He added that Makassar’s role is strengthened as a virtual hub, making it easier for people to reach various cities across Sulawesi in a single journey. This connectivity is also expected to spur regional economic growth and broaden access to the tourism sector.
He further noted that the air network has been integrated with the AirAsia Group network. Under a fly-thru scheme, passengers from Palu, Kendari or Luwuk can connect via Makassar to continue their journey internationally to Kuala Lumpur. This network integration is expected to boost international tourist visits to Sulawesi, while also strengthening domestic tourist movement through more efficient travel options.