Airasia Launches Inaugural KL-Labuan Bajo Flight, Boosting Access To Indonesia’s Tourism Hub

By Norhayati Mohd Akhir

LABUAN BAJO (Indonesia), Sept 3 (Bernama) -- AirAsia's inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur to Labuan Bajo, piloted by Captain Ng Foo Yee, landed at Komodo International Airport today, marking the airline's expansion to a new destination in ASEAN.

AirAsia flight AK336, operated by an Airbus A320, departed from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 2 (T2) at 10.55 am and arrived at Komodo International Airport at 2.30 pm local time, with an almost full passenger load.

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Formerly known as Labuan Bajo Mutiara Airport, Komodo International Airport serves as the main gateway to Labuan Bajo, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's most remarkable wonders.

Upon arrival, the plane was welcomed with a water cannon salute, and passengers received special goodies.

During a welcoming ceremony at the airport, AirAsia Malaysia managing director Datuk Captain Fareh Mazputra said the direct flights represent a significant step in supporting Indonesia's ambitious tourism goals, as Labuan Bajo is one of the country’s top five super-priority tourism destinations.

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“The Indonesian government aims to attract more travellers with hopes to surpass 500,000 visitors within this year.

“We (AirAsia) are committed to contributing to Labuan Bajo’s continued development as a world-class destination by making it more accessible to travellers from around the globe,” he said.

Commenting on the collaboration between AirAsia and the Indonesian government, Fareh described it as crucial to achieving the ambitious targets set for Labuan Bajo and ensuring its status as a premier tourism hub.

"Indonesia remains one of our most important markets, and we will continue to work closely with AirAsia Indonesia to boost tourism and trade between our two nations," he said.

It was recently reported that AirAsia has launched direct flights between KLIA T2 and Labuan Bajo three times a week, starting today, utilising the airline's A320 aircraft.

The airline is offering special all-in fares from as low as RM179 one-way.

Known as the "City of Sunset," Labuan Bajo, located in East Nusa Tenggara, is one of Indonesia's top 10 tourist destinations and is promoted as "A Destination Beyond Bali" by the Indonesian government.

Labuan Bajo, the gateway to the renowned Komodo National Park, has also been designated as a priority destination in Indonesia.

-- BERNAMA