About Citilink
Citilink is an Indonesian low-cost carrier operating under IATA code QG and ICAO code CTV, headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia. Originally established in 2001 as a low-cost brand of Garuda Indonesia, Citilink began independent operations as a fully separated subsidiary on 30 July 2012 after obtaining its own Air Operator Certificate. The airline is wholly owned by Garuda Indonesia Group and focuses on providing affordable air travel across Indonesia and select international destinations in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
As one of Indonesia's leading budget airlines, Citilink connects passengers from its primary hubs at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta and Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya to a wide network of domestic and international destinations. The airline is known for its competitive fares, modern all-Airbus fleet, and commitment to punctuality and safety standards. For Malaysian travellers, Citilink offers direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to major Indonesian cities including Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali, making it a popular choice for both leisure and business travel.
Airline Overview and History
Citilink has grown from a small regional brand into one of Indonesia's busiest low-cost carriers. Below are the key milestones in the airline's development:
- 2001 — Garuda Indonesia established Citilink as a low-cost brand, launching initial operations on 16 July 2001 with two Fokker F28 aircraft from Surabaya to Yogyakarta, Balikpapan, Tarakan, and Makassar
- 2008 — Garuda temporarily suspended Citilink operations due to fleet transition and restructuring
- January 2009 — Citilink relaunched with modernised aircraft, replacing the ageing Fokker F28 fleet
- September 2011 — First Airbus A320 entered service, connecting Jakarta with Balikpapan, Banjarmasin, and Medan
- 30 July 2012 — Citilink officially separated from Garuda Indonesia as an independent subsidiary, operating with its own airline codes, callsign, logo, and uniform
- August 2012 — Received its own Air Operator Certificate from Indonesia's Directorate General of Civil Aviation
- 2013 — Carried 8 million passengers with an 85% load factor and 87% on-time arrival rate
- February 2017 — Became the first airline in Indonesia to operate the Airbus A320neo, receiving the aircraft directly from the Airbus delivery centre
- 2024 — Expanded international network with long-haul routes using wide-body Airbus A330-900neo aircraft, including services to Jeddah for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims
The airline's primary hub at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta serves as the main gateway for both domestic and international operations, while Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya functions as a secondary hub connecting eastern Indonesia. Citilink's mission is to be the preferred low-cost carrier in Indonesia by delivering safe, reliable, and affordable air travel to all passengers.
Fleet and Aircraft
Citilink operates an all-Airbus fleet designed for efficiency, reliability, and passenger comfort across short-haul domestic and medium-haul international routes. The fleet includes the following aircraft types:
- Airbus A320-200 — The backbone of Citilink's domestic network, configured with 180 economy class seats in a 3-3 layout. Used extensively on high-frequency routes across the Indonesian archipelago
- Airbus A320neo — A newer, more fuel-efficient variant featuring advanced Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan engines. Citilink was the first airline in Indonesia to operate this type, receiving its inaugural A320neo in February 2017. Offers improved fuel efficiency and reduced noise levels compared to the A320-200
- Airbus A330-900neo — A wide-body aircraft deployed on longer international routes, featuring both Premium Economy and Economy Class cabins. Deployed primarily on routes to Saudi Arabia (Jeddah) for Hajj and Umrah services, offering greater range and passenger capacity
Citilink's fleet is maintained to the highest safety standards by GMF AeroAsia, a subsidiary of Garuda Indonesia Group and one of the largest MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facilities in Southeast Asia. Regular maintenance checks are performed in accordance with Indonesian DGCA regulations and international aviation safety protocols established by EASA and the FAA.
Top Flight Routes
Citilink operates an extensive domestic network across Indonesia and a growing number of international routes. For Malaysian travellers, the airline offers convenient direct connections from Kuala Lumpur to popular Indonesian destinations. Here are the top routes relevant to passengers flying from Malaysia:
Direct Routes from Kuala Lumpur
- Kuala Lumpur to Jakarta — Connecting Malaysia's capital to Indonesia's bustling metropolis, ideal for business travellers and tourists exploring Java. Flight time is approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
- Kuala Lumpur to Surabaya — A popular route linking KL to East Java's largest city, gateway to Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater. Flight time is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
- Kuala Lumpur to Bali (Denpasar) — One of the most sought-after leisure routes from Malaysia, connecting travellers to Bali's world-famous beaches, temples, and cultural attractions. Flight time is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes
Popular Connecting Routes via Jakarta and Surabaya
From Jakarta or Surabaya, Citilink's extensive domestic network allows Malaysian travellers to connect onward to dozens of cities across Indonesia, including:
- Jakarta to Yogyakarta — Gateway to Borobudur Temple and Javanese cultural heritage
- Jakarta to Balikpapan — Access point for East Kalimantan and the new capital city Nusantara
- Surabaya to Lombok — An emerging alternative to Bali with stunning beaches and Mount Rinjani
- Jakarta to Makassar — Gateway to South Sulawesi and Toraja highlands
You can also explore these popular routes from Kuala Lumpur to other Indonesian cities on Traveloka:
Check the latest available routes and fares directly on Traveloka, where real-time flight availability and pricing are displayed for all operational Citilink routes.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Understanding the baggage rules before you fly helps you pack smart and avoid unexpected fees at the airport. Below is a summary of Citilink's baggage policy for both domestic and international flights.
Cabin Baggage
- Weight limit: 7 kg (combined weight of one main carry-on bag and one small personal item)
- Maximum dimensions: 56 x 36 x 23 cm for the main carry-on bag
- Overweight penalty: Carry-on bags exceeding the weight or size limit will be checked into the hold for a fee of IDR 250,000 (domestic) or USD 20 (international)
Checked Baggage — Domestic Flights
- Free allowance: 20 kg per passenger on Airbus A320 aircraft; 10 kg per passenger on ATR aircraft
- Maximum weight per piece: 32 kg — bags heavier than 32 kg must be split into separate pieces
- Excess baggage fees: Vary by route — for example, IDR 50,000 to IDR 75,000 per kg on popular routes such as Jakarta to Surabaya or Jakarta to Denpasar, and up to IDR 140,000 per kg on longer routes such as Jakarta to Manado
- Pre-booked baggage: Available in packages of 5 kg, 10 kg, 20 kg, 30 kg, and 40 kg at discounted rates starting from IDR 15,000 per kg when purchased in advance through Traveloka
Checked Baggage — International Flights
- Free allowance: 7 kg cabin baggage only (no free checked baggage on most international routes). Exception: Dili routes include 20 kg free checked baggage
- Pre-booked baggage: Available from IDR 60,000 to IDR 220,000 per kg depending on route. For example, Jakarta to Singapore is approximately IDR 65,000 per kg, and Denpasar to Perth is approximately IDR 125,000 per kg
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Citilink follows international aviation security regulations. Key restrictions include:
- Dangerous goods, flammable materials, and sharp objects are prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage
- Lithium batteries, power banks, and electronic cigarettes must be carried in cabin baggage only
- Sporting equipment such as surfboards, golf clubs, and bicycles can be transported as checked baggage with advance arrangements and applicable fees
Check-in Guide
Airport Counter Check-in
Airport counter check-in is available at all departure airports served by Citilink. Key timings to note:
- Domestic flights: Check-in counter opens 2 hours before departure and closes 30 minutes before departure. Passengers who fail to check in 30 minutes before departure will need to purchase a new ticket
- International flights: Check-in counter closes 1 hour before departure. Passengers who fail to check in 1 hour before departure will need to purchase a new ticket
- Soekarno-Hatta Airport (CGK): Special timing applies — check-in and baggage drop closes 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 1 hour before departure for international flights
Arriving early is strongly recommended during peak travel periods such as school holidays, Hari Raya, Lebaran, and long weekends.
Online Check-in
Citilink offers web check-in for domestic flights through its official website and mobile app. Key details:
- Availability: Domestic flights only — international passengers must check in at the airport counter
- Timing window: From 100 days up to 30 minutes before scheduled departure time
- After check-in: Passengers with checked baggage can proceed directly to the baggage drop counter. Passengers with cabin baggage only can head straight to security screening and the departure gate
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Economy Class (Regular Zone)
Citilink's standard Economy Class is available on all aircraft types. On the Airbus A320 fleet, the cabin features 180 seats in a 3-3 configuration with a seat pitch of 28 inches. While compact, the cabin is designed for efficiency on short domestic sectors typically lasting one to three hours.
Green Zone (Enhanced Economy)
Citilink offers a distinct seating product called the Green Zone, occupying the first five rows of the A320 cabin. While not a separate cabin class, the Green Zone provides a slightly more comfortable experience with a seat pitch of 29 inches and the advantage of faster disembarkation upon arrival. This option is ideal for business travellers or passengers who prefer a quicker exit.
Premium Economy Class (A330-900neo Only)
On the Airbus A330-900neo used for longer international routes to Saudi Arabia (Jeddah), Citilink offers a dedicated Premium Economy cabin featuring 42 seats with a generous 38-inch (96.5 cm) seat pitch. The Economy Class section on the A330-900neo has 323 seats with a 30-inch (76.2 cm) seat pitch, offering a notable improvement over the A320 domestic configuration.
In-Flight Meals and Beverages
Citilink operates a buy-on-board dining model across its fleet. Passengers can choose from a variety of meal options:
- Pre-order meals: Available up to 24 hours before departure. Hot meals are priced at IDR 55,500 and salads or sandwiches at IDR 25,000. Pre-ordered meals include a complimentary bottle of water
- On-board purchases: A selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages is available for purchase during the flight
- Dietary options: Halal meals are the standard offering. Passengers with specific dietary needs such as vegetarian or allergy-related requirements should pre-order through the airline
In-Flight Entertainment
Citilink does not provide built-in seatback entertainment screens on its A320 fleet. Passengers are encouraged to download movies, shows, music, or reading material to personal devices before departure. On the A330-900neo, entertainment options may vary. The airline's cabin crew provides friendly, attentive service throughout every flight.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Travelling with Children and Infants
- Children (2–11 years): Must be accompanied by at least one adult and require their own seat and ticket. Child fares may be available on certain routes
- Infants (under 2 years): May travel on an accompanying adult's lap with a reduced infant fare. One adult may only accompany one infant
- Required documents: Valid birth certificate or passport for all child and infant passengers
- Strollers and car seats can generally be checked at the boarding gate free of charge
Pregnant Passengers
- Passengers up to 32 weeks of pregnancy may fly with a medical fitness-to-fly certificate from a doctor, dated not more than 7 days before the travel date
- Passengers at 36 weeks of pregnancy and above are not accepted for travel on Citilink flights
- For pregnancies between 32 and 36 weeks, additional medical clearance may be required. Passengers must also sign a Limited Liability Statement
- If a medical certificate cannot be produced, the pregnant passenger is required to sign a Form of Indemnity at the check-in counter
Passengers Requiring Special Assistance
Citilink provides dedicated assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, visual or hearing impairments, medical conditions, or other special needs. Available services include:
- Wheelchair assistance from check-in through boarding and disembarkation
- Priority seating arrangements near the front of the cabin
- Assistance from trained cabin crew during the flight
Passengers who require medical equipment on board (such as portable oxygen concentrators or mobility aids) should notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure to ensure proper arrangements are made.
Unaccompanied Minors
- Children under 6 years: Must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times and cannot travel unaccompanied
- Children aged 7–12 years: Eligible for Citilink's unaccompanied minor service, which provides supervision from departure to arrival. An additional handling fee of IDR 150,000 applies
- Parents or guardians must complete the required documentation at a Citilink office or airport counter and ensure a designated responsible adult is present at both the departure and arrival airports
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
Rescheduling Flights
To reschedule a Citilink flight booked through Traveloka, follow these steps:
- Open the Traveloka app or website and navigate to My Booking
- Select the booking you wish to modify
- Choose the reschedule option and select a new flight date and time
- Pay any applicable rescheduling fees or fare differences
Flexible fare types typically allow rescheduling with lower or waived fees, while promotional fares may have stricter conditions or higher change fees.
Cancellations and Refunds
Refund eligibility depends on your ticket type:
- Fully refundable fares: Cancel and receive a full refund to your original payment method
- Partially refundable fares: Cancellation fee deducted from the refund amount
- Non-refundable promotional fares: May be converted into travel credit or vouchers for future Citilink bookings
To request a cancellation or refund, visit your booking details on Traveloka and follow the guided process. Refund processing typically takes 7 to 30 business days depending on the payment method used.
Why Book Citilink Flights on Traveloka
Booking Citilink flights through Traveloka offers Malaysian travellers several advantages that make the entire travel experience smoother and more affordable:
- Competitive pricing — Access exclusive deals and promotional fares on Citilink flights to Jakarta, Surabaya, Bali, and other Indonesian destinations not available elsewhere
- Easy comparison — Sort and filter flights by price, departure time, duration, and number of stops to find the perfect itinerary
- Flexible payment options — Pay with credit or debit cards, bank transfers, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, ShopeePay, or convenient instalment plans
- Instant e-ticket — Receive your booking confirmation immediately via email and the Traveloka app, with no need to visit a physical ticket counter
- 24/7 customer support — Traveloka's multilingual support team is available around the clock for any booking issues, changes, or travel queries
- Loyalty rewards — Earn Traveloka Points, enjoy cashback offers, and access member-exclusive deals every time you book
- Comprehensive travel platform — Book flights, hotels, airport transfers, and activities all in one place for a seamless trip to Indonesia
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka
Use these proven strategies to secure the best fares on Citilink flights from Kuala Lumpur to Indonesia:
- Book early — Ticket prices generally increase closer to the departure date. Aim to book at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance for the best fares
- Be flexible with dates — Use Traveloka's fare calendar to compare prices across different days and find the cheapest travel window
- Fly midweek — Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to offer lower fares than weekends and public holidays
- Set Price Alerts — Activate Traveloka's Price Alert feature to get notified instantly when fares drop on your preferred Citilink route
- Check promotions regularly — Visit Traveloka's promo page for flash sales, seasonal discounts, and exclusive promo codes on Citilink flights
- Travel off-peak — Avoid school holidays, Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and major long weekends for significantly lower fares
- Bundle your trip — Book Citilink flights and hotels together on Traveloka for additional bundled savings
- Choose basic fares — If travelling light with cabin baggage only, select the lowest fare option without add-ons to save on international routes where checked baggage is not included free
- Pre-book baggage — If you need checked baggage on international routes, pre-purchase it through Traveloka during booking for rates significantly cheaper than paying at the airport counter
How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Follow these simple steps to book your Citilink flight from Kuala Lumpur on Traveloka:
- Visit traveloka.com or open the Traveloka app and navigate to the Flights section
- Enter Kuala Lumpur (KUL) as your departure city and your Indonesian destination (e.g., Jakarta, Surabaya, or Bali) as the arrival city
- Select your travel dates, cabin class preference, and specify the number of passengers
- Tap the search button to view all available Citilink flights for your chosen route
- Sort results by price, departure time, or duration and select your preferred flight
- Enter passenger details for each traveller — full name (as on passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, and contact information
- Add optional extras such as additional checked baggage, seat selection, travel insurance, or airport transfers
- Review your booking summary including the total fare, taxes, baggage fees, and any add-ons
- Choose your preferred payment method — credit card, debit card, bank transfer, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, or ShopeePay — and complete the transaction
- Receive your e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app. Save or screenshot it for reference at the airport
With your e-ticket confirmed, you are all set to fly with Citilink from Kuala Lumpur to your favourite Indonesian destination. Enjoy your trip!