PONTIANAK: The newly revived direct flight route between Pontianak and Kuching is expected to open fresh opportunities not only for tourists, but also patients, students and professionals seeking cross-border access to services and institutions.
AirAsia’s Head of Commercial, Liyana Mahizzan, said the airline is optimistic about the route’s potential to spur growth in multiple sectors beyond tourism, including healthcare and education.
“We hope this Pontianak-Kuching route will not only boost tourism in Sarawak but also contribute to the medical and educational sectors. This is about strengthening Sarawak’s industries through various avenues,” she said to reporters at the Sarawak Tourism Board Travel Fair at Ayani Mega Mall here today.
AirAsia’s renewed regional connectivity follows years of border closures and travel disruptions.
The airline is confident that the reintroduction of international flights from Supadio International Airport in Pontianak will encourage greater movement and partnerships between West Kalimantan and Sarawak.
“The reception has been very positive. We are pleased that Pontianak’s airport can once again accommodate international flights,” she added.
AirAsia has also confirmed its flight fares, making the route accessible to a wider group of travellers.
The starting fare for a one-way flight from Kuching to Pontianak is RM149, while flights from Kuala Lumpur to Pontianak start at RM159.
For Indonesian travellers, tickets begin at 500,000 rupiah.
The direct route is expected to resume on September 12, offering a quicker alternative to the land journey between the two capitals.
