NEW DELHI: Garuda Indonesia has started flying to Mumbai, providing a vital air link between Indonesia and India as the two countries discuss closer relations.
The inaugural flight from Jakarta via Bangkok touched down at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Monday evening.
Garuda Indonesia is using a Boeing 737-800 aircraft in a two-class configuration, offering 12 seats in business and 144 in economy.
The launch of Garuda Indonesia’s thrice weekly service coincided with the state visit of Indonesian President Joko Widodo to India.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Widodo on Monday welcomed the new air link in their joint statement, which noted “the importance of connectivity for enhancement of trade, tourism and people-to-people contacts.”
“They also encouraged direct flights from India to Indonesia by the airlines of India,” the statement said.
The two countries are looking to promote direct shipping links and private sector investment in port and airport developments. – Bernama