Garuda Indonesia launches service to Mumbai

Garuda Indonesia has started flying to Mumbai.

It marks a vital air link between Indonesia and India as the two countries discuss closer relations.

The inaugural flight from Jakarta via Bangkok touched down at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport on Monday evening.

Garuda Indonesia in a statement said it was using a Boeing 737-800 aircraft in a two-class configuration, offering 12 seats in business and 144 in economy, for the flight.

The launch of the thrice weekly service coincided with the state visit of Indonesian President Joko Widodo to India.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Widodo on Monday welcomed the new air link in their joint statement, which noted the importance of connectivity for enhancement of trade, tourism and people-to-people contacts.

They also encouraged direct flights from India to Indonesia.

The two countries are looking to promote direct shipping links and private sector investment in ports and airport development. - Bernama