TransNusa Launches Makassar-Manado Route to Strengthen Tourism Connectivity
TransNusa has reopened the Makassar-Manado flight route to support public mobility while simultaneously driving growth in the tourism and economic sectors across Sulawesi.
“This connectivity is expected to encourage tourists to visit various destinations in both provinces, ranging from the Bunaken tourism area in Manado, North Sulawesi, to tourist destinations in South Sulawesi,” said Ruly Artha, General Manager of Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, in Maros, South Sulawesi, on Monday.
He stated that the opening of the Makassar-Manado route is also part of an effort to strengthen Makassar’s position as one of the air transport hubs in Eastern Indonesia, while expanding tourist access to premier destinations in Sulawesi and the surrounding regions.
With the increase in inter-regional flight options, he continued, air connectivity from Makassar is expected to provide convenience for tourists planning multi-destination trips across Eastern Indonesia (KTI), while opening opportunities for the growth of local economic activities.
Meanwhile, the Regent of Maros, Chaidir Syam, welcomed the return of TransNusa to South Sulawesi following its suspension during the COVID-19 period. According to him, this connectivity will not only benefit Maros Regency but also support the economic and tourism growth of South Sulawesi. Previously, TransNusa served the Makassar-Palu route and is now expanding its flight network by opening the Makassar-Manado route.
“With this flight, people can travel to Manado in the morning and return in the afternoon within a single day,” said Chaidir.
TransNusa Director Bayu Sutanto stated that the opening of this route provides new options for individuals with business, economic, or tourism interests between South Sulawesi and North Sulawesi.
“Starting 10 October, the Manado-Makassar flight will be provided twice daily,” said Bayu. He added that this connectivity is expected to encourage tourists to visit various destinations in both provinces, from the Bunaken tourism area in Manado to destinations in South Sulawesi.