Jakarta-Kuala Lumpur Subang Route Sees New TransNusa Airbus A320 Service

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One of the most remarkable aviation comebacks post-COVID-19 is Indonesia’s TransNusa Airlines. After suspending operations in September 2020 due to the pandemic, the airline triumphantly resumed flights in September 2022, bolstered by the issuance of its Air Operator Certificate earlier that month.

A TransNusa First

TransNusa Airlines has made a notable impact in the aviation sector with its current operation of three daily flights between Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Malaysia’s main international gateway. This well-established route underscores the airline’s commitment to connecting major hubs in Southeast Asia, ensuring convenient travel options for passengers between these two bustling capitals.

On Thursday, TransNusa Airlines marked a significant milestone by inaugurating a new route between Jakarta and the recently redeveloped Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB), commonly referred to as Subang Airport, located on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. This groundbreaking service is the first of its kind by any airline, demonstrating TransNusa’s innovative approach to expanding its network and enhancing regional connectivity.

Subang Airport, which boasts more accessible proximity to the city center, served as Malaysia’s main international hub from 1965 until 1995 before Kuala Lumpur International Airport took over. For many years, Subang was primarily used for general aviation and turboprop services. Recently, however, Malaysian authorities have expanded its capabilities, permitting limited jet operations. This change has enabled four Malaysian airlines and two international carriers to begin utilizing Subang Airport, marking a new chapter in its storied history.

The two international airlines granted rights to operate at Subang Airport are Indonesia’s TransNusa and Singapore’s Scoot. The domestic carriers include the AirAsia Aviation Group, Batik Air, SKS Airways, and Firefly. TransNusa stands out as the sole airline providing direct flights from Subang Airport to Jakarta, offering Malaysians a unique travel option in addition to the existing services at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

A Remarkable COVID Comeback

Yesterday, TransNusa flight 8B 699 took off from Jakarta’s Soekarno Hatta International Airport (CGK) at 11:19 AM, touching down at Subang Airport at 2:04 PM after a 1 hour and 45-minute journey. This inaugural flight was carried out by an Airbus A320-200, registered as PK-TLB with MSN 02835. The return journey saw the same aircraft departing Subang Airport as flight 8B 698 at 4:46 PM and arriving back in Jakarta at 5:36 PM.

The daily flight itinerary includes a departure from Jakarta at 16:10, with arrival at Subang Airport scheduled for 19:00. The return flight is planned to leave Subang at 19:30, reaching Jakarta by 20:30. TransNusa Group CEO Datuk Bernard Francis confirmed that the airline will sustain its current operations, featuring three daily flights to Kuala Lumpur International Airport and four weekly flights to Johor Bahru. In addition, TransNusa will continue offering international services to Guangzhou, China, and Singapore.

As reported by Flightradar24, TransNusa Airlines boasts a diverse fleet that includes four Airbus A320-200s and three COMAC ARJ21-700s, the latter being a unique addition as they are manufactured in China. Notably, before the pandemic, the airline also operated Airbus A320neo aircraft. TransNusa holds the distinction of being the second Indonesian airline authorized to operate flights to China and the pioneering international airline to use the 95-seat COMAC ARJ21. Each of TransNusa’s Airbus A320s features a single-class configuration, offering seating for 174 passengers, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to efficient and comfortable air travel.

The rejuvenated TransNusa Airlines commenced its Airbus A320 operations on October 6, 2022, marking a significant milestone in its comeback journey. Shortly thereafter, on December 22, 2022, the airline welcomed its first COMAC ARJ21 into the fleet, showcasing its commitment to incorporating advanced aircraft technology.

Expanding its reach beyond domestic boundaries, TransNusa launched its first international route between Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur on April 14, 2023. This inaugural international flight underscored the airline’s ambition to reestablish its presence in the regional aviation market and strengthen connectivity between major Southeast Asian cities.

On the domestic front, TransNusa serves key Indonesian destinations such as Bali and Yogyakarta (YIA). By connecting these popular locations, the airline not only caters to tourists but also supports local economies and fosters greater mobility within the country.