Budget carrier AirAsia has announced plans to double capacity on its route from the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur to the Indonesian city of Yogyakarta. The airline will introduce a second daily rotation on the route from October 31, 2012, doubling capacity to meet with increased demand and offer an enhanced schedule to passengers.
AirAsia first launched flights to Yogyakarta in January 2008 when it joined Garuda Indonesia on the route to Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia Airlines replaced Garuda Indonesia in this market in February 2008 and had continued to compete directly with AirAsia up until August 2011 when it suspended its own services. In 2011, approximately 127,000 O&D passengers travelled on the route with AirAsia holding an estimated 84 per cent share of this traffic. Last year’s demand was up 74.2 per cent on the figure for 2008, AirAsia’s first year of service and highlights how its low fares have stimulated the market.
“The increase of flight frequency for the Kuala Lumpur – Yogyakarta route, from one to two daily, is to provide our guests with further convenience and more choices of flights times to suit their schedule and travel preferences,” said Jasmine Lee, Director of Commercial, AirAsia. “The increased flight frequency also presents enhanced access for business and leisure travelers from Kuala Lumpur to Yogyakarta and vice versa, with the potential to contribute to more growth in economic gains for both cities through healthier commerce and tourism activities.”
Yogyakarta (also known as Yogya), the home of the mighty Mount Merapi, presents an abundance of attractions to visitors. The city of Yogyakarta is recognised as one of the most significant cultural centre of Indonesia, with a plethora of tourism appeals such as the majestic Borobudur temple, Keraton (Sultan’s Palace), silver capital Kota Gede and shopping paradise Malioboro (perfect for bargain and souvenir hunters).
The city is also ideal for those arty at heart, as Yogyakarta is known as the centre of fine Javanese arts ranging from dances, painting to craft work. It is also known for its traditional textile production, especially fine batik which is regarded as one of the best textile products to be produced in Indonesia.
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