Garuda Indonesia is to launch a new daily flight from Singapore to Makassar, from 1 June 2011. The introduction of this route is inline with the airline’s plans to develop Makassar as its third domestic hub, after Jakarta and Bali, and gateway to East Indonesia.

The launch of this new route will mark a significant step forward in our network expansion strategy. We’re seeing strong growth in passenger traffic from Singapore to Makassar via Jakarta and there is enormous potential in this market particularly in the leisure segment,said Risnandi, Senior General Manager, Area Asia, Garuda Indonesia.2011 has been declared ‘Visit Makassar’ year and the city has been busy adding new events and festivals to its attractions. We will be teaming up with the local tourism officials to promote Makassar as one of the Indonesian destination of choice and will also be launching great deals and offers to entice travellers from Singapore.

Makassar is the largest city on Sulawesi Island and was the main harbour and trade centre in pre-colonial Indonesia. It’s located right in the centre of the archipelago with Fort Rotterdam as its main attraction. Travellers flying to Makassar can expect to enjoy tasty local specialities such as the famous Coto Makassar beef soup, relaxing on the white sands of Tanjung Bira beach and soaking in the tranquil sceneries of Bambapuang Mountain.

Garuda Indonesia will operate this new route initially using the Boeing 737-500 aircraft which can accommodate 12 passengers in Executive Class and 84 in Economy Class.The new flight will operate daily from Changi Airport Terminal 3, departing at 18:50 and arriving in Makassar at 22:00 local time. The return service will leave Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar at 15:00 and arrive in Singapore at 17:50.To celebrate the launch of the new route, Garuda Indonesia is running a promotion until 31 May 2011. Singapore – Makassar return flights in economy class will be sold at just Sin$220, valid for travel from 1 June to 31 August 2011. Terms and conditions apply.