SIA delays launch of Jakarta-Sydney route after Indonesia withdraws approval
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Flag carrier Singapore Airlines (SIA) said on Wednesday (Nov 9) it has delayed plans to launch a new route linking Singapore, Jakarta and Sydney, after Indonesia withdrew its approval due to runway maintenance work.
The airline had earlier announced that it planned to launch the thrice-weekly Singapore-Jakarta-Sydney route on Nov 23. SIA said Indonesia’s civil aviation authorities had issued written approval, and the airline had secured the necessary airport slots.
However, Indonesian authorities have informed the airline that they are now unable to approve the flights due to runway maintenance work at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, SIA said. The runway work also affects other airlines, it added.
In response to media queries, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) said it was aware of the delay in the launch of the new route.
“SIA’s new service will enhance air connectivity between Singapore, Jakarta and Sydney, which will facilitate people and trade flows between these cities,” CAAS said.
“We hope the Indonesian civil aviation authorities can give approval for this new service as soon as possible so that it can be launched.”
SIA said it will contact customers with bookings on the route and transfer them to other flights. “The airline apologises for the inconvenience caused to our customers,” it said.
Questions & Answers
Q.Why has Singapore Airlines delayed the launch of its new Singapore-Jakarta-Sydney route?
Why has Singapore Airlines delayed the launch of its new Singapore-Jakarta-Sydney route?
Indonesia withdrew its approval for the new route. This was due to runway maintenance work being carried out at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, according to Indonesian authorities.
Q.When was the new Singapore-Jakarta-Sydney route originally planned to launch?
When was the new Singapore-Jakarta-Sydney route originally planned to launch?
The Singapore-Jakarta-Sydney route was initially scheduled to begin on November 23. It was planned as a thrice-weekly service connecting the three cities.
Q.What will happen to customers who have already booked flights on the delayed route?
What will happen to customers who have already booked flights on the delayed route?
Singapore Airlines has stated it will contact affected customers directly. The airline plans to transfer these passengers to other available flights and has apologised for any inconvenience caused.
Q.Did Singapore Airlines have initial approval for this new route?
Did Singapore Airlines have initial approval for this new route?
Yes, Singapore Airlines had received written approval from Indonesia's civil aviation authorities. They had also successfully secured all necessary airport slots before the withdrawal of approval.
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