The Malindo Air flight from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Subang airport became the very first international flight to land directly from abroad at this brand new international airport.
Previously tourists wishing to holiday at Lake Toba had to fly to Kuala Namu Airport of Medan, then make another 5 hours overland drive before finally arriving at the lake.
Carrying 38 passengers or 52% load factor, the plane was ceremoniously welcomed with a shower salute from water cannons. Passengers were greeted with a warm Batak welcome dance called Hatta Sopisik, that relates the story of how two lovers vowed to keep their promise forever. Also in the first group were nine Malaysian media, invited by Lion Air group.
“This inaugural flight from Subang, Malaysia, marks a historic moment, especially since it coincides with Indonesia’s Independence Day”, said Arie Prasteyo, President Director of Lake Toba Authority in his welcome speech. Malindo Air flights from Malaysia direct to Lake Toba will certainly enhance the economy of local communities.
Lake Toba is a fabulous destination full of rich natural beauty and exotic culture. We are indeed very pleased that all has proceeded smoothly, including the administrative clearance system at Silangit airport” continued Arie.
Image source: http://kiponamura.blogspot.com
On his side, Silangit Station Manager of Malindo Air, Yudha Nugraha, remarked that the market response to the new route has been most encouraging. To date, bookings received for this week’s flights alone already reached an average 40% on the 72 seaters ATR72-600 flights, especially taking into consideration the short promotion time given of only two weeks. This shows that Malaysians are already very familiar with Lake Toba, its beauty, and cool air. We expect more bookings in the coming days, said Yudha Nugraha.
Image source: Shutterstock
Malindo Air now operates 4 flights weekly between Subang, Malaysia and Silangit International Airport at Lake Toba. Flights leave Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, departing Subang at 13,45 local time (Malaysia is one hour ahead of West Indonesia Time). Promotional fares are set at RM189. While the return journey from Silangit to Subang departs 14.50 West Indonesia Time, with fares at Rp. 549,000.
For more information and booking do log on to www.malindoair.com.
Image Source: Shutterstock
The timing of Malindo Air flights coincides with events taking place around Lake Toba in conjunction with Indonesia’s Independence Day that includes the thrilling Samosir Gran Fondo New York cycling race to take place on 2 September, and the Samosir Music International Fiesta on 25 August,, and many more.
Meanwhile, domestically, Garuda Indonesia and other airlines already serve Silangit from Medan, Jakarta, Batam and many other routes.
The next international airline scheduled to fly direct from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Silangit Airport is AirAsia, scheduled to start from October 2018.
