Garuda Indonesia introduces Sub-Brand 'Explore' ATR72-600 to service domestic routes

Garuda Indonesia stated (25-Nov-2013) that in line with the airline's efforts to develop and strengthen its flight network, especially in the domestic sector, it plans to launch a new sub-brand "Explore" along with the introduction of the airline's ATR 72-600 aircraft into its fleet, on 25-Nov-2013. In addition to the sub-brand "Explore", at the same time Garuda Indonesia also introduced the sub-brand "Explore Jet" along with the operation of its Bombardier CRJ1000 NextGen fleet since Oct-2012 to serve the airline's network in both eastern and western Indonesia. Garuda president and CEO Emirsyah Satar said the implementation of both sub-brands is in line with its ATR72-600 and CRJ1000 NextGen fleet that have the ability to serve new destinations in eastern Indonesia, which have limited runways. "The 'Explore' ATR72-600 aircraft will support Garuda Indonesia's Bombardier CRJ1000 NextGen aircraft operation in accordance to improve the national connectivity programme (MP3EI) by developing our flight network to the fast growing economic regions and tourist destination in the remote area in Indonesia," he said. The operation of these turboprop aircraft is also in line with the company's efforts to enhance service to the customers by offering a wider choice of destinations and travel options to passengers as well as part of Garuda Indonesia's move to join the SkyTeam alliance in Mar-2014 and in anticipation of 2015's ASEAN Open Sky policy. Garuda Indonesia will operate "Explore" flight through ATR72-600 aircraft, starting on 03-Dec-2013, with a single class cabin (all economy) configuration with a seat capacity for 70 passengers to serve flights flying out of its hubs or spokes, such as from Denpasar on to Labuan Bajo, Ende, and Bima, as well as from Makassar and Ambon to destinations in those regions. In line with its fleet development programme, Garuda Indonesia will receive 35 ATR72-600, including firm orders for 25 aircraft and options for 10 additional aircraft, in stages up to 2017. The aircraft will be used to serve short-haul point to point flights, and services between hubs and spokes. Garuda will use these new turboprop on routes that are under the 400nm range in all regions of the country. In line with the company's long-term "Quantum Leap 2011-2015" expansion programne, Garuda Indonesia will take delivery of 26 new aircraft in 2013 to support the development of both the national and international flight networks, consisting of four Boeing 777-300ER, three A330s, 10 737-800NG, seven CRJ1000s and two ATR72-600. Meanwhile, in 2013 Citilink will receive 10 A320 aircraft. Thus, Garuda Indonesia Group will operate as many as 139 fleet by the end of 2013. [more - original PR]