The maiden flight from Kunming, China, to Batam, Indonesia, marks a significant milestone in regional connectivity, bringing 133 passengers and heralding new opportunities for investment and tourism in Indonesia. The arrival of these passengers, including adults and children, was celebrated at Hang Nadim Airport, Batam, early on Sunday, January 21, 2024.
This direct flight, operated by Citilink with an Airbus A320, is a strategic effort to expand regional connectivity. It’s not just a charter flight but also falls into the category of regular flights, enhancing the travel options between Batam and Kunming.
Pikri Ilham Kurniansyah, CEO of Batam International Airport, expressed that these international routes positively impact the economic growth in Indonesia, particularly in Batam.
The flight is part of a broader initiative to increase visitor numbers and business opportunities in Batam, making the city more accessible to various international destinations.
Upcoming international routes include Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with Batik Air, South Korea via Jeju Air, and other Southeast Asian destinations like Thailand and Vietnam.
Guntur Sakti, Head of the Kepri Tourism Office, emphasized this inaugural flight as part of PT BIB’s plan to support the government’s goal of attracting 3 million tourists in 2024.
Read More: New Batam-China Charter Flight Route Launched by PT BIB
Mulyadi Tan, Chairman of ASPARNAS KEPRI, highlighted ongoing collaborations with the government and travel agencies to promote Kepri as a prime tourism destination.
The initiation of the Batam-Kunming direct flight opens up a convenient travel corridor, enhancing tourism and business opportunities in the region. This development is a promising sign for those looking to explore the diverse offerings of Batam and its surroundings.
The launch of the first direct flight from Kunming to Batam, carrying 133 passengers, signifies a leap forward in enhancing Batam’s connectivity and attractiveness as a tourism and investment destination. This initiative is part of a larger plan to increase international visits to the region, with Batam poised to become a significant hub for travelers from China and beyond.
Source: Batam Today (2024)
