Angkasa Pura Indonesia and AirAsia Strengthen Eastern Indonesia Connectivity
Makassar (ANTARA) — The synergy between PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia (API) and Indonesia AirAsia continues to strengthen in a bid to enhance air connectivity in Eastern Indonesia through the opening of four new AirAsia routes.
“This collaboration is realised through the opening and development of new domestic routes that will expand transportation access, tourism and inter-regional economic movement,” said Handy Heryudhitiawan, CEO of Region VI at PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia, in Makassar on Monday evening.
He said that strengthening air connectivity is key to equitable national development, particularly in Eastern Indonesia (Kawasan Timur Indonesia/KTI).
According to him, the role of airports as transportation hubs must be optimised to serve public mobility needs and support the growth of regional priority sectors.
He expressed readiness to procure airport infrastructure and services to support the opening of AirAsia’s new routes, whilst ensuring that safety, security and passenger comfort standards are maintained.
Meanwhile, from the airline side, Eddy Krismeidi, Head of Indonesia Affairs and Policy at Indonesia AirAsia, said the carrier is committed to expanding its domestic flight network, particularly to cities in Eastern Indonesia with significant economic and tourism potential such as Makassar in South Sulawesi, Kendari in Southeast Sulawesi, and Palu and Luwuk in Central Sulawesi.
“The opening of these four new routes — Surabaya, Luwuk, Kendari and Palu — is expected to improve inter-regional connectivity and provide affordable flight options for the public,” he said.
Support also came from the regional government. Meriani Tenriawaru, Head of the Mandala Museum and Societeit de Harmonie Unit, representing the Head of the South Sulawesi Culture and Tourism Agency, said the synergy would have a positive impact on tourism development in South Sulawesi.
According to her, easier air transportation access would encourage increased domestic tourist visits to various cultural and historical destinations in the region.