ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA — Indonesia’s flag carrier Garuda Indonesia is once again under the spotlight after receiving a massive IDR 23.67 trillion restructuring fund from the government.
Members of Commission VI of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) are demanding not only financial recovery but also bold international expansion—an area where Garuda is seen as lagging behind foreign competitors.
During a hearing with Garuda’s President Director at the Nusantara I Building on December 1, 2025, Commission VI member Achmad questioned the airline’s reluctance to reopen strategic international routes.
He cited the Pekanbaru–Singapore route, which Garuda launched but closed in less than a year. Today, the same route operates successfully under foreign carriers.
“Why can’t Garuda compete in its own home market? Foreign airlines continue to operate the Pekanbaru–Singapore route. Garuda must be able to compete domestically and internationally,” Achmad emphasized.
State Injection Must Deliver Real Business Transformation
Achmad stressed that the IDR 23.67 trillion fund—redirected from crucial sectors such as education and healthcare—comes with a heavy responsibility for Garuda’s management.
“The government sacrificed IDR 23.67 trillion that could have supported education and healthcare. This funding must be managed seriously and responsibly,” he said.
He added that Garuda’s long-term sustainability is now fully in the hands of its leadership, which carries the mandate to restore Garuda’s status as Indonesia’s national pride.
Four-Pillar Transformation Must Translate into Real Action
While acknowledging Garuda’s transformation strategy built on four pillars—service, business, operational, and digital—Achmad warned that the framework should not remain theoretical.
“These strategies must translate into real improvements. The public expects Garuda to be more efficient, competitive, and capable of delivering world-class service,” he noted.
Ensuring Fleet Readiness Ahead of the Holiday Surge
With Christmas and New Year peak travel approaching, Commission VI demanded clarity on the number of aircraft that are genuinely ready to serve passengers. Achmad urged Garuda to avoid technical failures that could disrupt travel, referencing the recent Hajj flight incident in Makassar, where a plane was forced to return shortly after takeoff.
Garuda’s management confirmed that the airline does not plan to acquire new aircraft and will instead focus on maximizing the performance of its existing fleet.
“If no new aircraft are being added, all available resources must be directed toward ensuring the current fleet operates at full capacity,” Achmad said.
Supported, but Expected to Rise to Global Standards
Despite the stern remarks, Commission VI reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Garuda’s recovery and transformation. Achmad expressed hope that the state-backed rescue effort would translate into measurable progress.
“With new leadership and the four-pillar framework, we believe Garuda can return as a source of national pride. But the commitment must be real and consistent,” he concluded. (AT Network)
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