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Citilink to open new international routes from Batam airport
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The famous Barelang Bridge in Batam, Riau Islands. (Shutterstock/File)
C
itilink, the low-cost arm of national flag carrier Garuda Indonesia, is set to open two international routes from Hang Nadim Airport in Batam, Riau Islands, in 2017.
The airport's general manager Suwarso told Antara news agency that the airline planned to fly to China and Korea every Monday and Thursday, respectively, using an Airbus 320 that could accommodate 180 passengers, in a bid to support tourism in the region.
"Flights could be added if the number of passengers increases," said Suwarso in Batam on Tuesday, adding that the airport was also ready to expand its international terminal, which currently has around a 600-seat capacity per day.
(Read also: Citilink to expand network to Papua)
"We are ready to serve international flights. All facilities are available, including a 24-hour operational airport," he said.
The airport currently only serves one international flight from Lion Air's Malaysian subsidiary, Malindo Air, which flies to Malaysia once per day.
Riau Islands provincial administration has cooperated with tour and travel agencies in China and Korea to attract more tourists. Visitors from both countries do not need to apply for a visa to enter Indonesia. (fmn/kes)
