Istanbul-Jakarta: Turkish Airlines Arrived in Indonesia

Radi Anky Juremi August 06, 2009

Finally, since the European Union (EU) lifted its ban on Indonesian airlines, Turkey's flag carrier is to begin the Istanbul-Jakarta service on Aug. 30.

As announced by the Turkish Airlines, the Airlines will open a new route to Indonesia on Aug. 30 via Singapore. Turkish Airlines will fly to Jakarta five times a week after making stops in Singapore.

In a statement forwarded to the press by the offices of the President's special envoy for Middle East Region, Alwi Shihab, the Turkish Trade Minister Zafer Caglayan said that he was pleased to see the new route established.

Caglayan said that Indonesia and Turkey have huge potential for development, especially in tourism.

“We are optimistic that total trade between the two countries will reach some $5 billion over the next three years,” Said Caglayan.

Moreover, the statement also said that some bilateral trade discussions were also under way, including a code sharing agreement between PT Garuda Indonesia and Turkish Airlines, also allowing Turkish banks to open its branches in Jakarta, even, if possible, some partnerships for several construction projects.