LAKE TOBA: AirAsia Indonesia, an Indonesian airline unit of Capital A Bhd, has introduced the Jakarta-Silangit route from September 1.
Chief executive officer (CEO) of Capital A, Tony Fernandes said the new flight proved the airline group's commitment to support tourism and community empowerment around one of Indonesia's priority destinations, Lake Toba.
"Lake Toba has huge unlocked potential to offer both local and international tourists, not only in terms of unique attractions but also with many unknown experiences ranging from its rich biodiversity to the culture and way of life of its people."
"Indonesia is one of our most popular and most important destinations and therefore we're thrilled to be able to play our part to promote and support this incredible destination," he said at a press conference following the arrival of the inaugural Jakarta-Silangit flight at the Silangit International Airport here today.
The inaugural flight marks the beginning of a strong partnership between Indonesia AirAsia, its parent company Capital A and key government, tourism and industry stakeholders to boost its presence globally.
The flight also signifies the airline group's commitment to the economic development of the region and community empowerment.
Indonesia AirAsia also launched a new tagline "Terbang Lagi Indonesia" or "Fly Again Indonesia."
Meanwhile, AirAsia Indonesia CEO Veranita Yosephine Sinaga said the airline was committed to support the development of tourist destinations in Indonesia as a whole.
"Not only by adding routes, but also by establishing strategic partnerships to promote tourism products and the creative economy as well as being involved in efforts to develop rural education and empower the surrounding community, especially in Lake Toba," she said.
Veranita also said AirAsia Indonesia was working with the Lake Toba Tourism Authority and Tobatenun to provide a significant boost to Lake Toba tourism.
Indonesia AirAsia's Jakarta-Silangit inaugural flight departed from Soekarno Hatta International Airport at 11:50 today and arrived at Silangit International Airport at 13:50 local time.
Upon arrival, the flight was greeted with water cannon salut provided by PT Angkasa Pura II Silangit Airport.
AirAsia Indonesia will provide the Jakarta-Silangit flight three times a week every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday using the Airbus A320 aircraft.