TRANSNUSA, a new Indonesian airline, plans to launch a direct flight between Manado and Davao to improve the regional connection between North Sulawesi and Mindanao.
In a statement following Mindanao Development Authority’s (MinDA) meeting with the TransNusa’s Aviation Group last week, Asec. Romeo Montenegro, MinDA deputy executive director, revealed the airline aims to increase its aviation services in the Philippines.
The meeting was facilitated by the Indonesian Consulate General in Davao, with Dato Bernard Francis, CEO of TransNusa Aviation at its headquarters in Jakarta.
Sec. Leo Tereso Magno, MinDA chairperson, said this would further help enhance airline connectivity, especially in the city.
“We are thrilled to welcome this development, as a new Indonesian airline intends to explore this route, which holds great promise for enhancing connectivity between Mindanao and North Sulawesi,” Magno said.
TransNusa Aviation Group is Indonesia’s fastest-growing airline to introduce international routes, and also the first airline worldwide to utilize the COMAC ARJ21, a jet aircraft with a specially designed interior featuring 95 seats.
According to TransNusa’s statement, the airline is dedicated to providing “reliable, safe, and affordable air travel across Indonesia and Southeast Asia.”
The airline also aims to enhance regional mobility and contribute to the economic development of the communities it serves.
Datu Bernard Francis, TransNusa’s CEO, said they also see the route as a strategic addition to its network, aligning with its goal of promoting greater accessibility and connectivity within ASEAN.
“We recognize the potential of this route to not only strengthen business and tourism ties but also to serve as a catalyst for regional development,” he said.
Magno also stressed that the airline recognizes the crucial role a direct Manado-Davao air link could play in boosting economic ties, promoting tourism, and facilitating trade across the region.
“Once revived, this air link will not just be about transportation; it will create new opportunities, strengthen economic ties, and realize the vision of a more integrated and prosperous BIMP-EAGA and ASEAN region,” he added.
Earlier this year, MinDA provided crucial support to Leading Edge Air Services Corp. (LEASCOR) in their exploration of the viability of a similar Davao-Manado flight.
Meanwhile, TransNusa’s exploration of the Manado-Davao route will undergo further study. The airline, however, has expressed optimism about its potential to become a cornerstone of regional connectivity.
Photo from MinDA
