Governor Mahyeldi emphasizes the potential economic and tourism benefits of the new Singapore-Padang flight route, urging efforts for its long-term sustainability.
Governor of West Sumatra, Mahyeldi, expressed his support for the opening of the new international flight route from Singapore to Padang, set to commence on January 6, 2025, operated by Scoot Airlines. He highlighted the potential of this route to boost both the region’s economy and tourism. This statement was made during a meeting with Scoot Airlines’ management in Padang on Friday, where discussions focused on ensuring the route’s sustainability.
Attending the meeting were Scoot’s officials, including Mr. Ying Jian Tan, Leader Regulatory and Contract, Raymond Tanadi, Leader Network Planning, Jafri Arief, Leader Team Scoot Indonesia-Jakarta, and Daddy Setiaddy, GM Gapura Angkasa for Padang, representing Scoot in West Sumatra. Governor Mahyeldi emphasized that this route, which begins with the inaugural flight from Singapore’s Changi Airport to Minangkabau International Airport, must be supported by the local government and tourism industry to ensure its success.
Mahyeldi reflected on previous attempts by other airlines to establish direct flights between Padang and Singapore, which ultimately did not last. He called for careful evaluation to prevent the same challenges that led to the discontinuation of those flights. The Governor added that the flight would be operated by an Embraer aircraft, with a capacity of 112 passengers, and will be used strategically to promote various sectors such as trade, tourism, agriculture, and education.
In addition to encouraging collaboration, Mahyeldi urged relevant regional authorities to increase communication, coordination, and promotion to support the flight route. He also emphasized the importance of providing adequate information to the Minang diaspora, who could benefit from this new connection.
Jafri Arief from Scoot Indonesia also expressed appreciation for the provincial government’s support and commitment to working with local authorities and the tourism industry to maximize the potential of this route. He noted that the proactive approach by the Governor and local officials was a rare and positive step for the airline.
Source: ANTARA
