World Report

ational flag carrier Garuda Indonesia wants to become the principal airline in Asia. With a modern fleet of 49 aircraft, it carries almost six million passengers every year, and employs nearly 9,000 people. The fleet includes three new long-range Boeing 747-400s and 19 Boeing 737s.

As the face of Indonesia abroad, the airline has an important role to play in helping to restore confidence in the hearts and minds of travellers. The airline has an extensive route network that covers Asia, Australia, Europe and the Middle East.

Through various strategic alliances, Garuda passengers are able to fly just about anywhere in the world. The airline has forged a special relationship with Malaysia Airlines, for example, which offers various onward connections to the UK and the US.

In January, Garuda resumed flights to the Chinese capital, Beijing, something of a milestone after flights were halted in October 1997 due to the Asian economic crisis. It is hoping to reap the benefits of the growth in demand for air transport in the world’s fastest-growing country. The number of Chinese visitors to Indonesia has rocketed in recent years. From 36,000 visitors in 2000 some 400,000 are expected during 2005.

As well as international routes, Garuda also has an important role in the domestic market, helping to bring together the many islands scattered throughout the archipelago.

With the prospect of privatisation, the airline is getting into shape for the challenges of the future. It is working towards improving standards of quality and raising customer satisfaction. There is also a strong commitment to internal training, not only in safety and security issues, but also in customer care.

In a general overhaul of the business, the senior management have also improved aircraft turnaround times and capacity utilisation. The drive towards greater efficiency has been recognised with an award for punctuality from Amsterdam’s Schipol Airport.

The continued liberalisation of the airline industry is likely to put all airlines under increased pressure in coming years. But by being responsive to market demands, Garuda intends to stay ahead of the pack.