How to get cheap flights
MethodWhy it worksSavings
Booking directly with airlineOTAs and travel agents often up the price by adding a service fee2% — 10%
Flying on weekday
Weekend flights tend to cost slightly more More →5% — 10%
Group bookingAirlines offer discounts for groups of 9+ travelers More →5% — 20%
Layovers / stopoversNon-direct flights with layovers/stopovers often offer lower fares10% — 20%
Flying early morning
Lower demand for flights departing 1am - 5am15% — 20%
Early booking
As departure day nears, airfares start to rise More →10% — 30%
Flying during low-seasonLess demand = lower prices10% — 30%
Booking round-trip flightsAirlines encourage longer commitment by offering discount10% — 35%
Frequent flyer programsAirlines offer discounts to foster customer loyalty10% — 40%
Sales and promotionsAirlines often offer special promotions to boost demand Promotions →10% — 50%
SuperDealsExpert-picked deals are much cheaper due to insider knowledge SuperDeals →40% — 80%
Air Traveler Club™Free newsletter with airline sales, promotions, and SuperDeals Sign up →40% — 80%

Why is Citilink so cheap on ATC?

Citilink can be extremely cheap when you seize opportunities such as ‘mistake fares‘, sudden price drops, sales and promotions or employ strategies like hidden city ticketing. Moreover, Citilink flights associated with their main Indonesian hub airportSoekarno–Hatta International Airport CGK — are typically priced lower due to the benefits of economies of scale and streamlined operations.

Airline flight super deals
A few examples of SuperDeals sent to ATC subscribers.

Air Traveler Club has a team of experts who diligently monitor for price reductions, promotional offers (often not widely advertised), under-the-radar airline sales, and other potential savings on flights. In the case of Citilink, we particularly focus on tracking prices for flights originating from their Jakarta hub.

These valuable findings are then promptly relayed to our subscribers as exclusive SuperDeals.

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Citilink reviews 2023,A.I. summary

We let the A.I. analyze thousands of Citilink reviews for an averaged, more accurate rating and opinion. Please note: this is an experimental feature.

★★★☆☆ 3/5 decent

Overall rating

Airline services rating
Baggage handling★★★☆☆
Seat comfort★★★☆☆
Food
★★★☆☆
Entertainment★★☆☆☆
Crew★★★★☆
Customer support★★★☆☆

Is Citilink a good airline?

Citilink has secured a 3/5 rating, positioning it as a decent airline in the eyes of passengers, chiefly due to its affordable pricing and satisfactory on-time performance.

In comparison to regional competitors, Citilink boasts a broad network within Indonesia, offering flights to an extensive array of domestic destinations. The airline’s pricing is considered competitive, particularly attractive to budget-conscious travelers seeking value. While the in-flight experience is generally described as comfortable for a low-cost carrier, the legroom and seat space are areas noted for potential improvement. Feedback often cites the limited food options and the cost of onboard purchases as common grievances.

Despite some criticisms, Citilink is frequently recognized for providing good value for money, especially for those prioritizing affordability and basic travel needs over luxury.

Strengths

  • Affordable ticket prices: Citilink is frequently praised for its budget-friendly fares, making air travel more accessible to a wider audience and offering good value for cost-conscious travelers.
  • Extensive domestic network: The airline’s expansive coverage across Indonesia is highlighted, providing passengers with a variety of destination options and facilitating convenient travel within the country.
  • On-time performance: Passengers often commend Citilink for its punctuality, appreciating the airline’s commitment to maintaining flight schedules, which is a crucial aspect of travel plans.

Weaknesses

  • Limited in-flight services: Reviews commonly point out that the in-flight services are minimal, with additional charges for snacks and beverages, reflecting the airline’s low-cost model.
  • Cramped seating: The economy-only configuration leads to a tighter seat pitch, which some passengers find uncomfortable, especially on longer flights.
  • Baggage fees: Customers have noted that while the fares are low, the baggage policy can be restrictive, with additional fees applied for checked luggage, potentially increasing the overall cost of travel.

Passenger's experience

Is Citilink a budget airline?

Yes, Citilink is a budget airline. Citilink is referred to as a LCC (low-cost carrier) due to its business model which is focused on offering basic air transportation services at the lowest possible cost.

The low-cost model has a few key characteristics that distinguish Citilink from traditional full-service carriers (FCC). The Indonesian airline predominantly operates short to medium-haul flights, and it adopts a high-density seating configuration in its aircraft to maximize passenger numbers and revenue per flight. Citilink also offers an “unbundled” fare structure, where the base fare usually only includes the seat and a small personal item. Additional services such as checked luggage, seat selection, extra legroom, and in-flight meals may be available but incur extra charges.

These strategies allow Citilink to keep operating costs low. The savings are then passed on to passengers in the form of lower ticket prices, hence earning it the label of a budget airline.

What can I expect when flying with Citilink?

When flying with Citilink, expect a no-frills, budget-friendly travel experience geared towards cost-conscious passengers.

The airline provides a wide array of domestic routes across Indonesia, making it a convenient choice for travelers looking to reach various local destinations. Onboard, the service is basic, with limited complimentary in-flight amenities, reflecting the airline’s low-cost ethos. Seating is typically in an all-economy class configuration, which may offer less legroom than full-service carriers.

While additional services like checked baggage and in-flight meals are available, they come with extra fees. Citilink is known for its satisfactory on-time performance, ensuring that travelers reach their destinations with minimal delay.

What are the seating options?

Citilink offers an all-economy class configuration across its fleet. The seating options within this class are:

  • Standard Economy Seats: These are the regular seats available on all Citilink flights, offering basic comfort.
  • Preferred Seats: Located towards the front of the plane, these seats provide a bit more convenience for quick disembarkation and sometimes slightly more legroom.
  • Exit Row Seats: For passengers looking for extra legroom, seats located at the emergency exit rows offer more space to stretch out.

Is Citilink economy comfortable?

Citilink’s economy class provides a comfortable and budget-friendly travel experience for passengers.

While the seat pitch and width may be slightly more compact compared to premium classes, the airline focuses on maintaining a comfortable journey for travelers. Seats are ergonomically designed with adequate legroom for short to medium-haul flights, ensuring a pleasant ride. Passengers can also enjoy a variety of in-flight services, including refreshments and entertainment options.

Citilink’s commitment to affordability doesn’t compromise on basic comfort, making it a suitable choice for travelers seeking a balance between cost-effectiveness and a pleasant flight experience.

How to get an extra legroom seat on Citilink plane?

Securing an extra legroom seat on a Citilink plane requires some planning and flexibility, but you can easily score one of these seats by familiarizing yourself with the cabin layout and checking in for your flight early. You may also consider paying for an upgrade to a seat with ample legroom and enhanced comfort.

As the location of the extra legroom seats varies depending on the aircraft, we recommend visiting the SeatGuru website. By simply entering your Citilink flight number, you can access a detailed seat map specific to your flight. Hover over individual seats to identify those with ample legroom. They are often found in exit rows, bulkhead rows (the first row in each cabin section), or other designated areas that offer additional legroom.

Due to their desirable features, the preferred seats are in high demand. They are often limited in number and typically incur additional fees. Seats with extra legroom located in front and exit rows ("hot seats") are priced higher. However, for medium– and long–haul flights, the additional cost of $10-$50 may be worth the increased comfort. Hot seats typically provide at least 36 inches of legroom (4-6 inches more than standard economy seats), wider seat pitch, and may also have adjustable footrests and recline further back.

Paying for an extra legroom seat is usually a more affordable option than upgrading to a Premium Economy.

What is the baggage allowance?

Citilink’s baggage allowance may vary depending on the fare class and route:
  • Checked Baggage: 20 kg and 10 kg for ATR aircraft
  • Cabin Baggage: One piece of carry-on luggage, max 7 kilograms, within size restrictions.

Does Citilink have Wi-Fi?

Citilink does not currently offer in-flight Wi-Fi on its flights.

Does Citilink have refundable tickets?

Yes, Citilink does offer a refund policy based on the timing of the refund request before the scheduled departure. The refund percentages vary as follows:

  • Over 72 hours before departure: Minimum refund of 75 percent of the base fare.
  • Between 72 hours and 48 hours before departure: Minimum refund of 50 percent of the base fare.
  • Between 48 hours and 24 hours before departure: Minimum refund of 40 percent of the base fare.
  • Between 24 hours and 12 hours before departure: Minimum refund of 30 percent of the base fare.
  • Between 12 hours and 4 hours before departure: Minimum refund of 20 percent of the base fare.
  • Less than 4 hours before departure: Minimum refund of 10 percent of the base fare, or in accordance with the policies of the scheduled commercial air transport enterprise.

How do I obtain my Citilink boarding pass?

Citilink boarding pass is a travel document that contains crucial information about your flight, confirms your seat and allows you to board the plane. It includes the passenger’s name, flight number, boarding time, boarding zone, gate number, seat number, and other essential flight details. The Citilink boarding pass can be in paper or electronic format. The boarding pass is issued during check-in — online on the airline's website (usually available 24 hours before the flight), its mobile app (mobile boarding pass) or at the airport. You can print your boarding pass at home or use a mobile app to store the digital boarding pass on your smartphone. Alternatively, you can check in at the airport, where the airline's representative will issue the boarding pass for you.

How to check Citilink flight status?

Unfortunately, Citilink does not provide information about flights status on their website – you’ll need to use an external tool.

There are several online platforms where you can check the status of Citilink flight: FlightRadar24, FlightStats, or FlightAware. They offer comprehensive information about any flight (regardless of the airline) – including real-time flight tracking.

Alternatively, input your flight number directly into Google's search bar. Drawing data from diverse sources (including the airlines themselves), Google will provide you with all the crucial flight information right on the search results page.

Citilink profile

Airline profile
Full namePT Citilink Indonesia
IATA codeQG
CountryIndonesia
Commenced operations2001
Typelow-cost
Cabin classesEconomy
Subsidiaries
Subsidiary ofGaruda Indonesia
Airline alliancenone
Frequent flyer programLinkmiles
HubsSoekarno–Hatta International Airport CGK, Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport HLP, Juanda International Airport SUB
Main destinations
Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Timor-Leste
Fleet size66
Aircraft

Airbus A320-200, Airbus A320neo, Airbus A330-900, Boeing 737-500, Boeing 737-300, ATR 72-600, Boeing 737-500

Official Websitehttps://www.citilink.co.id/

Citilink shortcuts

Essential links to Citilink official website.

Citilink flight booking

Search Citilink flights and book your Economy class ticket online.

Online check-in

How to check-in and receive your Citilink boarding pass?

Citilink baggage policy

Learn about checked and hand luggage regulations on Citilink flights.

Flexible tickets

Want to change your flight? Citilink flexible booking offer and policies.

Refunds and cancellations

Guidelines on returning a Citilink ticket and getting your money back.

Citilink help & support

Get in touch with the airline: customer service numbers, call centers, offices, and more.

Citilink tips

How to ensure smooth transit between Citilink connecting flights

Before your trip, research your connecting airport. Familiarize yourself with its layout, terminals, amenities, and the location of your connecting gate. This will save you time and stress during your layover. Every airport has a minimum connection time — make sure your layover is longer than this minimum time.

Additionally:

  • You may need to move between terminals if you have a connecting flight with a different airline or separate point-to-point tickets with Citilink. Each flight may require individual check-in procedures and an additional pass through security. As your luggage may not be automatically transferred to your final destination, you’ll need to retrieve your bags and check them in again for your subsequent flight.
  • When flights are booked on separate tickets, Citilink is not responsible if you miss your connection due to a delay with the first flight. Allow plenty of buffer time between flights to account for any potential delays.
  • Gate assignments can change. Regularly check the flight information boards to ensure you’re in the right place.
  • If your airport connection is tight (1-hour layover or less), pick a set near the front of the plane. It can shave 5–10 minutes off your deplaning time, especially on larger planes. Consider purchasing “hot seats” if available on your plane — they cost extra, but it may be worth it.
  • When flying domestically, try not to book the last flight out of your connecting airport. In case of a cancellation, the airline will put you on its next flight, but it will require an overnight stay and arrival a day later.
  • Flights can be delayed or canceled. Have a backup plan in case you miss your connecting flight. Know your rights and the Citilink policy on missed connections.

Booking group flights with Citilink

Flights are cheaper when purchased in bulk rather than as individual tickets. Booking group flights with Citilink can be a cost-effective option for a school trip, family reunion, or corporate group traveling to a conference.

To qualify for the special group rate, the group must usually have at least 10 passengers. Discounts depend on the group size and travel dates and typically range from 5% to 20% off the regular airfare.

Citilink website typically limits automatic group bookings to 9 passengers. This limit reflects the complexity of managing larger groups, which require personalized service and more time to coordinate. To get the price quote for your group, you’ll need to contact the airline directly.

A travel agent may be better if you want more personalized service. Travel agents may have access to discounted group rates for Citilink and can help with logistics and scheduling.

There is no Premium Economy on Citilink fights

Citilink does not offer a Premium Economy Class on its flights. The lack if the “Economy Plus” is part of its current business model, as the airline may see only a limited demand for this product.

The concept of Premium Economy has gained significant popularity among airlines in recent years. This cabin class, situated between Economy and Business Class, offers a middle-ground option for passengers seeking enhanced comfort and amenities without the higher price tag. With features such as extra legroom, wider seats, upgraded dining options, and priority boarding, Premium Economy cabin provides a more enjoyable travel experience — and still affordable for most people.

If you’d like to upgrade to a premium seat on a Citilink flight, consider the viable alternative: hot seats.