Garuda Indonesia Defends High Domestic Airfares During Lebaran 2026 Migration Period
The Chair of the Parliamentary Commission V, Lasarus, has questioned Garuda Indonesia’s elevated domestic flight ticket prices compared to international routes, particularly during the 2026 Lebaran migration period.
According to Lasarus, this situation creates an anomaly as flights to foreign destinations are, in some cases, cheaper than domestic flights. “It becomes difficult for our commission to explain whilst we serve as a venue for public complaints regarding expensive tickets, particularly on domestic flights. However, what is peculiar, there is an anomaly, Sir. How can flights abroad be cheaper? This is indeed a significant question amongst the public,” he stated.
Lasarus further criticised Garuda Indonesia’s position as a state-owned enterprise (SOE) selling tickets at relatively high prices. “Garuda is also amongst those with the most expensive tickets. A state-owned enterprise with the most expensive tickets. We hope that after charging high prices, Garuda will no longer incur losses,” Lasarus remarked.
He even alluded to Garuda’s continued financial strain despite selling tickets at high prices. “The tickets are already the most expensive, and the result is company bankruptcy. It neither benefits the public nor ensures company survival,” he added.
Garuda Indonesia responded that it adheres to government-set regulatory standards. “Regarding Garuda tickets, we follow the standard provided by the government, Sir, which is the ceiling tariff rate. Therefore, the tickets sold by Garuda never exceed what has been stipulated by the regulator,” said Dani.
He added that ticket prices displayed on Garuda Indonesia’s official website are also aligned with regulatory requirements. “Thus, what we have published on the website complies with what has been established by the regulator, Sir,” Dani stated.
According to another source, Alvin, domestic ticket prices have remained unchanged and inflexible, always remaining at the ceiling rate regardless of demand fluctuations. “So far, domestic ticket prices have never decreased, lack flexibility, and always remain at the ceiling tariff. Whether business is busy or quiet, the price does not change,” Alvin told Kompas.com via telephone.
This situation differs markedly from international flight ticket pricing. During peak seasons, international ticket prices increase, whilst during low seasons, prices decrease accordingly.