Wednesday, 2 April 2025
Airlines

Indonesia AirAsia opens direct Jakarta-Kota Kinabalu route

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The inaugural AirAsia flight between Jakarta and Kota Kinabalu aboard an Airbus A320 aircraft. (Photo from AirAsia)

Indonesia AirAsia on Tuesday, February 6th, launched direct flights from Jakarta to Kota Kinabalu, the first international route opened by the airline in 2024.

Capt. Wuri Septiawan, Director Flight Operations of Indonesia AirAsia, stated:

Indonesia AirAsia is extending its flight connectivity for international routes. The opening of this route also signifies our support to the government in enhancing the relationship between Indonesia and Malaysia.

The low-cost airline anticipates increased tourism and economic development for both countries as a result of the new route. Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Malaysia’s Sabah state, is known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Officials from both Indonesia and Malaysia welcomed the inaugural flight, which received a water salute upon landing. Sabah tourism officials noted their expectations for an increase in Indonesian visitors.

Datuk Christina Liew, Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, remarked:

We are delighted to welcome Indonesia AirAsia’s inaugural flight to Kota Kinabalu. This initiative not only strengthens the relationship between the countries but also opens up new opportunities in the tourism, cultural, and economic sectors.

The Jakarta-Kota Kinabalu route is Indonesia AirAsia’s fifth direct flight between Jakarta and Malaysian cities. According to government statistics, Malaysia ranks high on the list of countries sending visitors to Indonesia.

Indonesia AirAsia expects the new flight to contribute to government goals of increased international tourism and to potentially boost both imports and exports between the two countries.

Flight Schedule (Jakarta (CGK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI))

  • QZ-526 (CGK-BKI) departs at 12:15, arrives at 15:55 (Tue, Thu, Sat)
  • QZ-527 (BKI-CGK) departs at 16:35, arrives at 18:15 (Tue, Thu, Sat)

Tickets are available for purchase through the airasia.com website, mobile app, and authorized agents.

Written by
Dirk Andrei Salcedo

Dirk is the founder and editor-in-chief of Aviation Updates Philippines (AUP), a platform dedicated to providing the latest news and insights on the aviation industry in the Philippines. With a strong passion for aviation and a background in computer engineering, he manages all aspects of AUP, from website development to content curation.

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