The World's Best Regional Airline continues fleet revitalisation

Garuda Indonesia, the Airline of Indonesia, has launched its newest aircraft, the Bombardier CRJ1000 NextGen, on its inaugural flight in Indonesia.
 

A key part of Garuda Indonesia's continued fleet expansion, the first of 18 aircraft purchased from Bombardier this year will operate from the carrier's Makassar hub. Arriving from Canada on 10 October, the aircraft will service domestic high density short-haul routes, in a move to increase connectivity and accelerate development in the region.

Garuda Indonesia President and CEO, Emirsyah Satar said that the new aircraft is part of the airline's 'Quantum Leap 2011-2015' program, particularly Garuda's ongoing fleet and network development. Through the 'Quantum Leap' program, Garuda's fleet will grow from 94 to 194 aircraft by 2015, and will be able to transport 45.4 million passengers - more than double the airline's current capacity.

"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. We are pleased to add it to our fleet and to be the first carrier to introduce the aircraft to the Asia-Pacific region," added Emirsyah Satar.

Bagus Y. Siregar, Vice President for Garuda Indonesia Australia and SWP commented: "The ongoing development of Garuda Indonesia's fleet and network is a huge factor in reaching our goal of being a five star airline by 2015. The new Bombardier CRJ1000 NextGen will provide efficient and speedy travels for our Australian passengers who would like to further explore the eastern region of Indonesia. Overall, this will ultimately enhance Garuda's flight network."

The Bombardier CRJ 1000 NextGen was launched in 2010, and is recognised for its reliability, low operations cost and efficient fuel intake, as well as optimum passenger capacity.

About Garuda Indonesia

Garuda Indonesia, the airline of Indonesia, is a full-service network carrier and serves 33 domestic and 19 international destinations. The airline's main hubs in Indonesia are located in Jakarta and Denpasar. In July 2009, the airline unveiled a new aircraft fleet, new in-flight product, new service concept and a fresh corporate identity to mark the start of its transformation into one of Asia's most successful and profitable airlines.

Garuda Indonesia received its IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification in May 2008, recognising that the airline is fully compliant with global best-practice standards for flight operations, aircraft maintenance and safety management systems. In December 2009, the airline was also upgraded to a four-star rating by SkyTrax, the global benchmark for airline service standards, confirming the improvement in its front-line product and service quality. In January, February and July 2012, Garuda Indonesia was recognised as 'The Best International Airline' by Roy Morgan and more recently as 'The World's Best Regional Airline' as well as 'The Best Regional Airline in Asia' by SkyTrax.

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Franziska Kaestner
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