Low-cost carrier AirAsia has announced plans to inaugurate flights from Kuala Lumpur to Lombok, a route that Group Chief Executive Officer, Tony Fernandes credits to social media network Twitter for its launch. The three times weekly service is due to start on October 12, 2012 and reservations have already been opened for the link.
Lombok is an island in West Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia and will be the budget airline’s 15th destination in the country. It forms part of the chain of the Lesser Sunda Islands, with the Lombok Strait separating it from Bali to the west and the Alas Strait between it and Sumbawa to the east.
Over recent decades it has developed as a popular leisure destination and an alternative to Bali. It is now served by Lombok International Airport which is located to the south west of the small regional city of Praya in South central Lombok. The facility opened on October 1, 2011 and replaced the island’s original Selaparang Airport, situated on Jalan Adi Sucipto on the north western outskirts of the capital Mataram, which is now closed to commercial traffic.
“Lombok is a hidden gem. Blessed with a plethora of spectacular scenery, Lombok satisfies diverse holiday preferences. Outdoor lovers may embark on adventurous trips to explore the mighty Mt. Rinjani or Tropical Forest & Animal Reserve. Honeymooners will definitely find the untouched sandy beaches at Senggigi and the surrounding Gili Island as romantic retreats,” said Jasmine Lee, Commercial Director, AirAsia.
“For those who seek escapism, Lombok is a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving, with a dreamlike and picture perfect underwater world. It is a must for those looking for adventure, serenity or a romantic getaway,” she added.
After the formal launch of the new route, Tony Fernandes revealed that consumer participation on social media channels had pushed the carrier to introduce the route. In a tweet he revealed: “You asked for it on twitter. And we have delivered. AirAsia starts to Lombok on October 12th. Proud that twitter created this route.”
The new Kuala Lumpur route will be the second scheduled international link to Lombok. SilkAir also provides a regular service to Singapore Changi, a link that has been operational since March 1995 and which was switched across from the old Selaparang Airport when it was closed last year.
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