Tourism Ministry Welcomes TransNusa's Taipei–Manado Route Launch

Jakarta (ANTARA) — The Ministry of Tourism has welcomed the launch of the Taipei–Manado flight route by TransNusa airline, which is seen as strengthening connectivity and boosting international tourist arrivals, particularly from the Taiwanese market.

Ministry of Tourism Deputy for Marketing Ni Made Ayu Marthini said the new route is the result of a collaboration between TransNusa and Cocos Tour, with the support of the government and the Indonesian Economic and Trade Office (KDEI) in Taipei, in response to growing interest among Taiwanese tourists in visiting Indonesia.

“Connectivity is key to expanding access and enhancing destination competitiveness. A direct flight from Taiwan has long been awaited. We hope this route will attract more tourists to Indonesia on a sustainable basis,” Made said in a written statement in Manado on Saturday.

She said the Taiwanese market is showing a growth trend with strong interest in nature tourism and special interest tourism such as wellness, marine tourism, and culinary experiences. Manado is considered one of the favorite destinations due to its underwater potential and cultural affinity.

Ministry of Tourism data shows that Taiwanese tourist arrivals throughout 2025 reached 204,704 visits, up 11.65 percent compared to the same period the previous year, which recorded 183,341 visits. Taiwan also consistently ranks among the top 20 countries contributing international tourist visits to Indonesia.

Made said the new route can strengthen the tourism ecosystem and open up economic opportunities for communities in North Sulawesi.

The inaugural flight took place on 14 February 2026, departing Taipei at 2:00 PM local time and arriving at Sam Ratulangi Airport at 6:00 PM Central Indonesian Time (WITA). The return route departs Manado at 9:00 AM WITA and arrives in Taipei at 1:00 PM local time.

The flights use an Airbus A320 aircraft, with round-trip schedules on 14, 18, and 22 February 2026.

Head of KDEI Taipei Arif Sulistyo said the direct route shortens travel time while opening opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment cooperation between the two regions. He said his office will continue to support the strengthening of promotion and cooperation in strategic sectors to ensure the route operates sustainably.