Garuda Indonesia-Citilink Strengthen Logistics Business, Prepare Cargo Aircraft

JAKARTA, Jakartaweekly.com — National flag carrier PT Garuda Indonesia (Persero) Tbk and its subsidiary, Citilink, are strengthening synergies to develop their logistics business by exploring a potential cargo aircraft operation partnership amid growing cargo traffic during the first half of 2026.

Garuda Indonesia’s Technical Director and Acting Commercial Director, Mukhtaris, said the synergy is part of the company’s efforts to capitalize on the growth momentum in the cargo business while integrating capacity management across the Garuda Indonesia Group.

“As we continue to accelerate our transformation program, we expect this synergy to create opportunities to optimize the Garuda Indonesia Group’s cargo capacity and network while strengthening the competitiveness of our cargo business in a sustainable manner,” he said in Jakarta recently.

According to Mukhtaris, cargo traffic across the Garuda Indonesia Group grew during the first half of 2026. The growth presents an opportunity that needs to be addressed by strengthening capacity, networks, and operational synergies.

“This demonstrates that the cargo business still has room for growth, which we need to respond to by strengthening capacity, networks, and increasingly effective operational synergies,” he said.

The synergy was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Garuda Indonesia and Citilink. The agreement provides a framework for the two airlines to identify and evaluate potential commercial, operational, and technical partnerships to support the development of the Garuda Indonesia Group’s logistics ecosystem.

One of the key areas under consideration is the optimization of cargo capacity, including the potential operation of Citilink freighter aircraft to support the Garuda Indonesia Group’s cargo service network.

Citilink President Director and Acting Commercial Director Darsito Hendroseputro said the collaboration represents a strategic step for Citilink to tap into the potential of the cargo business by strengthening synergies within the Garuda Indonesia Group.

“Through this collaboration, Citilink is committed to strengthening the capacity and quality of air cargo services by utilizing freighter aircraft that can be integrated into the Garuda Indonesia Group’s network,” Darsito said.

As part of the initiative, Citilink will prepare to operate one Boeing 737-500 dedicated freighter with a cargo capacity of up to approximately 13.5 tons.

The aircraft’s operation will be subject to operational readiness, applicable aviation regulations, and the necessary regulatory approvals.

In addition to cargo aircraft operations, Garuda Indonesia and Citilink will conduct joint studies on network development, capacity optimization, operational requirements, and other potential cargo business opportunities.

Darsito said the synergy is expected to improve the reliability and efficiency of air logistics services while aligning cargo capacity with the evolving needs of goods distribution.

Mukhtaris added that closer cooperation between Garuda Indonesia and Citilink is also expected to enhance the group’s operational flexibility and strengthen its contribution to national logistics connectivity.

“The growth of the cargo business presents an opportunity for us to build a more agile and integrated network. By optimizing the capabilities of Garuda Indonesia and Citilink, we aim to provide increasingly competitive cargo services while supporting the movement of goods and strengthening national logistics connectivity,” Mukhtaris said.