Monday, April 16, 2012

Passenger numbers from Indonesia are expected to take off thanks to direct flights between Jakarta and Auckland

Auckland Airport's signed a memorandum of understanding with Garuda Indonesia, which is planning to fly direct between the countries as soon as market conditions allow.

Tourism New Zealand chief executive Kevin Bowler says currently fewer than 12 thousand people arrive every year from Indonesia.

He's expecting that number to jump quickly with Garuda.

"They've got a lot of orders for new aircraft and they have big plans to revitalise the airline. They said New Zealand has been part of that so we think it could turn into something quite serious. It could strengthen New Zealand ties with Europe as well."

Mr Thomas says Indonesia is a growing market and New Zealand's ready to take full advantage.

"Business travel will grow, and secondly the holiday market will grow, simply because of availability and scheduling."

Kevin Bowler expects we'll see big marketing campaigns from Garuda.

The flight path is also likely to do wonders for diplomatic relations.

Mr Bowler says the Government has recognised Indonesia is fast growing.

"We do think the introduction of a direct service would be a great convenience for visitors from Indonesia. It will also be great for building the relationship between the two countries."

Kevin Bowler says currently all flights to New Zealand from Indonesia go via Singapore.

Brent Thomas says Garuda's confident it has the numbers to keep afloat. 

http://home.nzcity.co.nz

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