Garuda Indonesia, Saudia Plan To Launch Joint Business In 2027

Saudia and Garuda are both members of SkyTeam. The partnership would “enhance connectivity between the two airlines' networks by enabling passengers to travel across both carriers' routes using a single ticket,” the airlines said.

The agreement would connect Garuda's network in Indonesia and Australia with Saudia's network across the Middle East, Europe and Africa. Saudia and Garuda also said it would place “particular importance” on Hajj and Umrah travel from Indonesia to Saudi Arabia.

According to OAG Schedules Analyser data, Garuda currently operates 14,148 two-way seats between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia for a 28.1% share between the countries. Saudia offers 20,148 two-way weekly seats between the countries for a leading 40.1% share. Indonesian LCC Lion Air is the only other carrier operating between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia, holding a 31.8% share.

A total of 66,587 two-way seats will be flown between the countries in the week commencing Aug. 31, according to OAG data.

Garuda and Saudia said they are seeking to cooperate “in several strategic areas, including network planning, flight schedule coordination between Saudi Arabia and Indonesia, and in sales, marketing and distribution across markets of mutual interest.” The carriers added they plan to coordinate on airport services, loyalty programs and technology.

The airlines noted their combined networks span more than 120 destinations with the joint business, providing “further potential to expand connectivity through new routes and direct flights to additional destinations.”

Garuda CEO Glenny Kairupan said the carriers plan terminal co-location. Saudia Director General Ibrahim Al-Omar said the joint business will focus on “combining the strengths of [their] respective networks and commercial capabilities.”