Indonesian Airlines Reviewed: Citilink & Garuda Indonesia

Citilink DPS-SUB A320 Economy Class:

Checking in for my Citilink flight from Bali to Surabaya was very easy and I was able to check one bag up to 20kg for free. After clearing security I was at my boarding gate. The gate lead to a bus to take us out to a remote stand as Citilink probably doesn’t want to pay for a jet bridge. Upon boarding, I grabbed my seat in Row 1 which was very clean as these A320 were fairly new. The first couple of rows are “Green Seats” which require an additional USD ~$1.50 during your flight booking. It was well worth it. The flight took off on time and we were on our way to Surabaya which was a short 45 minute flight. The snacks onboard that were available to purchase were just fine for a short haul flight. Would I fly Citilink again? Yes, if Garuda doesn’t offer a convenient schedule.

Garuda Indonesia SUB-CGK B737-800NG Economy Class:

Flying out of Surabaya airport was very easy since the domestic terminal is small with only a few gates. Checkin was easy and a free checked bag up to 20kg . Garuda is rated as the best airline in Indonesia and the only Indonesian airline with a 5-star safety rating according to Skytrax. Upon boarding the flight I knew right away this is why locals only recommend to fly Garuda. The plane was brand new and was a Next Generation model 737 with the Sky Interior lighting. It reminded me of Virgin America in the US. They even offered a free snack and drink during the short 1.5hr flight to Jakarta. Everything was flawless and I’d highly recommend flying Garuda. I wouldn’t hesitate to fly them again and especially on their 777-300ER routes.