Korean low-cost carriers (LCCs), which have been adding aircraft to expand their mid- to long-haul routes, are seemingly disappointed over their plans to launch new routes to Indonesia.
Major Korean LCCs are considering scrubbing plans to launch routes to Indonesia this year, according to industry sources. This is due to a recent breakdown of aviation talks between the Korean and Indonesian governments. Although the two countries are scheduled to meet again later this year, they are unlikely to reach a deal within the year.
The Indonesian route is coveted by all Korean LCCs. This is because it is the longest route that Korean LCCs can currently fly with their fleets. Not only does it have famous tourist destinations such as Bali, but it also has the advantage of having a large number of Korean companies such as Hyundai Motor. It is also easy to transit through Australia.
No. 1 LCC in Korea Jeju Air, which has been focusing on mid- to short-haul routes, launched charter flights to Manado and Batam for the first time as it prepares to launch flights to Indonesia at the end of the year. It also signed a business agreement with Indonesian authorities to develop new routes with its new B737-8 aircraft.
Air Busan will consider whether to apply for traffic right after the Korean and Indonesian aviation talks. T’way Airlines, which has been steadily developing long-haul routes, has also been paying attention to flying to Indonesia. However, it has been be at a loss what to do as it has not even secured traffic rights.