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PT GARUDA Indonesia Tbk (GIAA) is striving to make 2026 a performance turnaround phase. This is in line with the acceleration of business transformation and the restoration of production capacity.
The state-owned airline is targeting the readiness of at least 118 aircraft by the end of 2026. This will consist of 68 Garuda Indonesia aircraft and 50 Citilink aircraft in serviceable condition.
“Going forward, the company is optimistic that fleet recovery and consistent implementation of transformation will drive gradual improvements in operational performance,” said Garuda Indonesia President Director Glenny Kairupan recently.
In terms of performance, during the first three months of 2026, GIAA posted a net loss, or loss for the year attributable to the parent entity, of US$46.48 million, a 39.2% year-on-year (yoy) decrease.
The decline in losses was in line with consolidated revenue growth of 5.36% year-on-year to US$762.35 million. This growth was supported by increased passenger demand, improved yields, and a positive revenue trend.
In addition to performance, amidst pressure from the global aviation industry and the internal restructuring process following restructuring, the national airline is beginning to gain recognition in the international market.
Garuda ranks 24th in the world’s best airlines list according to AirlineRatings.com in 2026. This global recognition could be a significant catalyst in strengthening market perception of Garuda’s service quality.
It also supports efforts to recover performance and increase competitiveness amidst increasingly fierce industry competition. Service reputation is a crucial factor in the aviation industry, particularly in attracting premium passenger segments and increasing yields.
“Amidst the challenging dynamics of the global aviation industry, this achievement is certainly a positive signal reflecting the progress of the company’s transformation program,” said Glenny in an official statement on Friday (05/1), 2026.
Going forward, Garuda Indonesia is targeting accelerated transformation, not only in terms of service, but also operational efficiency and strengthening digital capabilities. This step is considered crucial for creating a more adaptive and sustainable business model.
“Garuda Indonesia is committed to accelerating various performance transformations that focus not only on comprehensive service improvements but also on operational optimization and the continuous development of service digitalization,” he said.
AirlineRatings.com’s assessment is based on the overall passenger experience, from cabin quality and crew service to in-flight meals. These aspects are important indicators in establishing service differentiation among full-service airlines.
This achievement reinforces Garuda’s strategic direction, which now focuses not only on financial recovery but also on strengthening the value of service as a competitive advantage.
The company is also preparing further improvements, from enhancing cabin service standards, ground services, and lounge facilities to developing digital services and in-flight entertainment.
Previously, the independent global rating agency OAG Aviation Worldwide, through its OAG Flightview platform, named Garuda Indonesia the world’s most punctual airline for March 2026.
In the report, Garuda Indonesia recorded an on-time performance (OTP) rate of 97.9%. This is the highest score among global airlines. “Punctuality is a crucial element in building customer trust,” concluded Garuda Indonesia’s Deputy President Director, Thomas Oentoro. [sources/photo special]
