TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Flag carrier Garuda Indonesia president director Irfan Setiaputra said he had planned a program to be kicked off when the coronavirus pandemic ended. On the first normal day, Irfan said Garuda would give 25 free tickets in each flight.

“I want to give 25 free seats on the first day [when the pandemic is over]. This has not been discussed seriously, but we will revive the public's pleasure in traveling,” said Irfan during an online discussion aired via Kumparan social media on Monday, May 4.

He recalled that the idea was sparked during a discussion on the current aviation condition with Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Wishnutama Kusubandio. The former PT INTI director said he was bored with being exposed to tiring news about the pandemic.

Thus, he came up with such an incentive for passengers, hoping airlines could actively participate in boosting the tourism industry when the outbreak recovery period occurs. “So we should not keep worrying. What’s important is that people are happy, and pictures of traveling will be everywhere,” Irfan said jokingly.

However, Irfan admitted that he could not predict when the situation will return to normal. Hopefully, at least after the Eid al-Fitr holidays or Lebaran on May 24, he said.

After the pandemic ended, Irfan pledged that Garuda Indonesia would keep prioritizing passengers’ comfort and safety as he believed the traveling trend would change because of the coronavirus.

FRANCISCA CHRISTY ROSANA