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**TransNusa Inaugurates First Direct Flight from Manado to Guangzhou Using China-Made ARJ21 Aircraft**
*Manado, Indonesia – October 2023* – In a significant milestone for both Indonesia’s aviation industry and China’s aerospace sector, TransNusa Airlines has successfully launched its first direct flight connecting Manado, Indonesia, to Guangzhou, China. This new route is particularly noteworthy as it is serviced by the ARJ21, a regional jet developed and manufactured by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC). The flight marks the first time an Indonesian airline has operated a China-made aircraft on an international route, underscoring the growing cooperation between the two nations in the aviation sector.
### A New Chapter in Regional Connectivity
The inaugural flight, which took off from Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado and landed at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, is expected to significantly boost tourism and business ties between Indonesia and China. Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi, is a popular destination for Chinese tourists, known for its pristine beaches, diving spots, and rich cultural heritage. Guangzhou, a major commercial hub in southern China, is a key gateway for trade and tourism.
The new direct route is expected to reduce travel time and provide a more convenient option for passengers traveling between the two cities. Previously, travelers had to rely on connecting flights through Jakarta or other regional hubs, which added hours to their journey. The direct flight is anticipated to attract both leisure and business travelers, further strengthening economic ties between the two countries.
### The ARJ21: A Symbol of China’s Growing Aerospace Ambitions
The ARJ21 (Advanced Regional Jet for the 21st Century) is a twin-engine regional jet designed to serve short- to medium-haul routes. Developed by COMAC, the ARJ21 is China’s first domestically produced commercial jetliner, and its deployment by TransNusa marks a significant step in the aircraft’s international expansion.
The ARJ21 has a seating capacity of 78 to 90 passengers and a range of approximately 2,225 kilometers (1,382 miles), making it well-suited for regional routes like Manado to Guangzhou. The aircraft is designed to operate in diverse weather conditions and is equipped with advanced avionics and safety features. Since its introduction in 2016, the ARJ21 has primarily been used by Chinese airlines for domestic routes, but its entry into the international market signals China’s growing ambitions in
