from today's Australian E-Travel Blackboard:
Garuda Indonesia confirms its departure from Northern Territory
17/04/2009
Garuda Indonesia has confirmed reports that they will be withdrawing their Darwin-Bali service, with effect 24April 2009, until further notice.
'While this decision is commercially necessary, after 28 years of continuous service to the Northern Territory, it is naturally very disappointing.' says Mr. Poerwoko Soeparyono, Senior General Manager Australia & Southwest Pacific.
However, we must be realistic. It is becoming more and more difficult for full service airlines to compete with the low cost carriers on short routes such as Darwin-Bali.'
This is further exacerbated by the current oversupply of capacity for a relatively small population and, as an international carrier; Garuda Indonesia does not have access to a large volume of Australian domestic traffic to feed into its services.'
In these times of economic challenge, it is essential that our aircraft are deployed on the routes that provide the best return. In this we are no different to any other airline or commercial enterprise.'
It is unfortunate that, at the present time, the Darwin-Bali route is not providing the best return.'
Two flights will remain in operation - departing Darwin on 08 and 18 May - to accommodate those visiting the Arafura Games.
The airline's continued presence in Darwin is still under review and an announcement will be made when this is determined.