Above: Garuda’s new CRJ1000NG aircraft.
After taking delivery of new Bombardier CRJ1000 jets earlier this month, Indonesian flag carrier Garuda Indonesia announced it will continue to expand its domestic network and reiterated it has its sights set on more long-haul destinations in the medium term. The carrier will put the new CRJ jets to work on short and medium-range routes out of its domestic hubs in Makassar, Medan, and Balikpapan.
“The CRJ1000 NextGen aircraft has already established a reputation for superior economics, outstanding fuel economy and better passenger comfort, which position it as the right airliner for our network expansion and new service to growth markets,” said Emirsyah Satar, chief executive officer of Garuda. “We are pleased to add it to our fleet and to be the first carrier to introduce the aircraft to the Asia-Pacific region.”
In a separate announcement, the airline reaffirmed its plans to start international flights to the USA from its Jakarta base. The first destination is understood to be Los Angeles, with the first flight slated for 2014. Garuda Indonesia is rapidly expanding its aircraft fleet as part of a program that aims to operate about 250 aircraft by the end of 2015.
