"We are interested in attracting visitors to Banyuwangi and digging into the region's potential," Xpress Air commercial director Fanny Andri said after a meeting with Banyuwangi Regent Abdullah Azwar Anas in Banyuwangi on Tuesday as quoted by tempo.co. 

Fanny said the first flight on the route would take place at the end of July. Three flights a week will be scheduled, departing from Banjarmasin at 12:40 p.m. and from Banyuwangi at 1:25 p.m.

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The new service will utilize Boeing 737 500/300 series aircraft with a capacity of 120-140 passengers. Four seats will be allocated to passengers in the premium economy class and the remainder for the regular economy class.

"We have completed 80 percent of the licensing and other processes," Fanny said.

He added that the new route offered a promising market potential, given that Banyuwangi was not only a tourist destination but also a subject of comparative studies or partnerships by institutions or administrations from other regions.

The new route, Fanny said, would offer people in remote areas, such as Banyuwangi's surroundings, new options for mobility.

Banyuwangi Airport executive general manager Anton Marthalius said the airport could still accommodate more flights to expand access to the region.

Meanwhile, Banyuwangi Regent Anas said he welcomed the new direct service, given that Banjarmasin had seen impressive economic growth.

He expressed hope that the new route would also accommodate residents of nearby regions, such as Jember, Bondowoso and Situbondo. (ars/kes)

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