SINGAPORE, 9 February 2018 – AirAsia Indonesia today launched two inaugural flights from Singapore to Medan and Padang as part of its commitment to building intra-Asean connectivity.

The direct services to the two cities in Sumatera have been open for sale since 7 November 2017 and mark AirAsia's expanding connectivity to Singapore, now served by 289 weekly flights connecting the airline's virtual hub with 17 destinations.

The inaugural flight from Kualanamu International Airport, Medan landed at Terminal 4 Changi at 8.15am, followed by the inaugural departure to Minangkabau International Airport, Padang at 8.55am.

Departing guests on the inaugural flights were sent off by special Indonesian traditional dances native to Padang and Medan – Tari Piring (Plate Dance) signifies gratitude to God for good harvest, Tari Payuang (Umbrella Dance) signifying happiness and Tari Tanduk, originating from North Sumatera. The aircraft was greeted by a water salute and Guests were presented with lei necklaces upon landing in Padang. Representatives from Singapore Tourism Board and Visit Indonesia Tourism Office also took part in the inaugural celebrations.

To celebrate the new services, AirAsia is offering special fares from as low as SGD39* for Singapore-Medan and SGD49* for Singapore-Padang, available for booking on airasia.com and the AirAsia mobile app, for travel from 9 February onwards.

AirAsia Singapore CEO Logan Velaitham said, "The inaugural flights to Padang and Medan emphasise our commitment to expand Singapore’s network as one of AirAsia’s hubs by linking up to new cities in Indonesia. In 2017, AirAsia Group carried a total of 4.3 million passengers to and from Singapore, an increase of 1.8% from the previous year. Operating from the state-of-art Terminal 4 of Changi will also provide AirAsia a solid platform to extend its digital journey and enhance our brand experience as we welcome more guests."

The booming city of Medan, capital of North Sumatra, is an economic hub and commercial centre for the region which also offers various wonderful attractions. Travellers can visit MaimoonPalace to witness a glimpse of the city's royal heritage, Lake Toba and Samosir Island for a soothing, highland retreat or make a trip to Berastagi to savour a feast of abundant fruits and flowers, from the unique taste of durian to the sweetness of passion fruit, known locally as markisa.

Padang is the gateway to the Mentawai Islands, a chain of about 70 islands which has become known as one of the world's top surfing destinations. Air Manis is Padang’s most popular beach, with its low waves, views of Mount Padang and nearby islands. It is also the legendary resting place of Malin Kundang, a young man who went out to sea and became a rich trader but was turned to stone after refusing to acknowledge his poor mother. Famous throughout Indonesia for its distinctive cuisine, Padang is the place to go to sample the world-famous rendang, a spicy dry beef stew cooked with coconut milk, soto Padang and the ubiquitous nasi Padang. Experience the unique way Padang food is served and watch how waiters expertly carry more than ten plates filled with all kinds of delicacies on both arms.

AirAsia also connects Singapore with other exciting destinations such as Jakarta, Bali, Bandung, Yogyakarta and Semarang in Indonesia; as part of the 130 destinations across the AirAsia network.

Keep updated with AirAsia's latest promotions on www.airasia.com.

*One-way all-in fare inclusive of taxes and fees. Terms and conditions apply