October 2019 – The Indonesia national flag carrier, Garuda Indonesia is set to start flying from Manado, North Sulawesi to Davao, Philippines starting this Friday (27/9). This new service is a part of the airline’s international network expansion program, especially in Southeast Asia - as well as the airline’s strong commitment to support the government in enhancing the future economic and tourism partnership between the Philippines and Indonesia.

CEO of Garuda Indonesia, Ari Askhara stated that “this service is also a part of the airline’s effort to provide a seamless connectivity for passengers in both countries through the first regular flight connecting Manado to Davao”.

Ari explained, “We do hope this Manado – Davao service will further boost economic, investment, trade and tourism activities amongst the two countries, while offering easier access for travelers between Davao as the one of the central business city in the Southern Philippines to various destinations in North Sulawesi”.

“We also hope this new service will be the important moment of strengthening trade, and investment sectors, along with leveraging seamless air connectivity for both countries”.

"In line with the establishment of North Sulawesi as one of the five super priorities destinations by the government, we hope that the opening of this services can also support government efforts to accelerate the development of Tourism and Special Economic Zones in tourism and infrastructure especially in a number of leading tourism destinations in North Sulawesi", explained Ari.

“With 2,3 million people traveling to Davao in 2018, this new service will be a potential opportunity for Manado tourism. This Manado – Davao direct flight is also expected to attract tourists from Davao to explore other leading tourist destinations in Manado and other cities in North Sulawesi.

Davao City known for its elegant orchids, exotic fruits especially - “Nenas” -, and Muslim heritage, Davao is Mindanao's premier city and the gateway to the region's attractions. At 244,000 hectares, it is the world's largest city in terms of land area. Its boundaries encompass commercial areas as well as beaches, mountains, and forests.

This Manado – Davao vv service will be served with ATR 72-600 aircraft with an all-economy-class configuration and capable of carrying 70 passengers. The passengers will be able to fly non-stop between Manado and Davao twice per week which are on Monday and Friday.

The flight will depart from Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Manado (GA7401) at 10.30 LT and arrive in Francisco Bangoy International Airport, Davao at 12.30 LT.

Meanwhile, the return flight from Francisco Bangoy International Airport, Davao (GA 7402) will leave at 13.15 LT and arrive in Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Manado at 15.10 LT.