Low-cost carrier Lion Air is set to open a new direct flight from Jakarta to Banyuwangi in East Java starting March 6.

The service will be available once a day.

According to the schedule, Lion Air JT-594 will fly from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, at 6:30 a.m. and arrive at Banyuwangi International Airport in Blimbingsari, Banyuwangi, at 8:20 a.m.

The return flight JT-593 will operate on the same day, departing from the Blimbingsari airport at 9 a.m. and landing in Tangerang at 10:40 a.m.

The service will use a Boeing 737-800 that can accommodate 189 economy class passengers.

Read also: Interesting places to visit in Banyuwangi

According to a statement, the new route aims to support traveler mobility and the government’s program on developing tourism by increasing the number of domestic and foreign tourists.

In recent years, Banyuwangi has grown to become one of the most popular destinations in the country. It boasts natural beauty, such as the Ijen Blue Fire and the Alas Purwo National Park, which have been declared biosphere reserves under the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The regency was declared a national geological park in December 2018, featuring rich biodiversity and cultural diversity.

The regency is also home to cultural attractions. In 2019, it staged 99 events, including 28 sporting events, 17 music events, and 16 culinary and innovation events.

Banyuwangi is the third destination in East Java to which Lion Air flies, after Surabaya and Malang. (wng)