Angkasa Pura Projects Rp40bn Monthly Loss over COVID-19 Outbreak

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Angkasa Pura I (AP1) predicts that it would be losing up to Rp40 billion per month due to the coronavirus or COVID-19 outbreak in China. The state airport manager derived the figures after calculating the lost potentials from suspending flights to and from China since February 5. 

Angkasa Pura I president director Faik Fahmi that, normally, there are 35 flights between China and Bali alone, with around 6,800 passengers a day. "SO the impact is quite significant, I'd say around Rp40 billion per month," he said in Jakarta, Thursday, February 27. 

To minimize losses, Faik said the company will used the slots of suspended international flights for domestic routes. The government is currently providing stimulus for 10 local tourist destinations that are most affected by the viral disease.   

Among the incentives is the discount for passenger service charge (PSC), down to 20 percent. "Other options include free landing discounts."

Faik went on to say that Angkasa Pura 1 will work together with the government and relevant stakeholders to restore the aviation business that has been derailed by the Wuhan virus.

"This is a problem that we must work out together," he remarked.

The government has prepared incentives for foreign tourists by providing an additional allocation of Rp298.5 billion for airlines. Travel agents are given special discounts and other incentives worth Rp98.5 billion. The government also allotted funds for promotion budget (Rp103 billion), tourism activities (Rp25 billion), as well as media relations and influencer services of Rp72 billion.

To boost domestic travels, the government is offering 30-percent ticket discounts for 10 destinations, valid from March to May. The discounted seats are valid for ¼ of the capacity of planes flying to Lake Toba, Yogyakarya, Malang, Manado, Bali, Mandalika, Labuan Bajo, Bangka Belitung, Batam, and Bintan.  

Eko Wahyudi | Galuh Kurnia Ramadhani (Intern Translator)