In addition to the new sub-brand "Explore", Garuda Indonesia introduced another sub-brand "Explore Jet" along with the operations of its Bombardier CRJ1000 NextGen fleet in October 2012 to serve the airline’s network in both eastern and western of Indonesia.
President and CEO of Garuda Indonesia Emirsyah Satar said, the implementation of both sub-brands is in line with the excellent features of Garuda Indonesia’s ATR72-600 and Bombardier CRJ1000NextGen that have the ability to serve flights to new destinations in eastern Indonesia, which has limited runway space.
"The “Explore” ATR72-600 aircraft will support Garuda Indonesia’s Bombardier CRJ1000 NextGen aircraft operations to improve the nation’s connectivity programme (MP3EI) by developing our flight network to the fast growing economic regions and tourist destinations in the remote areas of Indonesia," he said.
Moreover, the operation of these turboprop aircraft are also in line with the company’s efforts to enhance customer service by offering a wider choice of destinations and travel options to passengers as well as part of Garuda Indonesia’s move to join the SkyTeam global alliance in March 2014 and in anticipation of 2015’s ASEAN Open Sky policy.
Garuda Indonesia will operate "Explore" flight through ATR72-600 aircraft, starting on 3 December 2013, with a single class cabin (All Economy) configuration with a seat capacity for 70 passengers to serve flights flying out of its hubs or spokes, such as from Denpasar on to Labuan Bajo, Ende, and Bima, as well as from Makassar and Ambon to destinantions within those regions.
In line with its fleet development programme, Garuda Indonesia will receive 35 ATR72-600, includes firm orders for 25 aircraft and options for 10 additional aircraft, in stages up to 2017. The aircraft will be used to serve short-haul point to point flights, and flights between hubs and spokes.
As of the third quarter of this year, Garuda Indonesia Group has received 27 new aircraft, consisting of 7 B737-800 NG, 2 A330-300/200, 7 Bombardier CRJ-1000 NextGen, 2 B777 - 300ER, and 9 A320 - 200. Garuda Indonesia Group currently operates 131 aircraft.
