Garuda had promised to present a detailed five-year revitalization plan to its creditor committee by the end of June. The airline wants to conclude a debt-restructuring agreement as soon as possible. Without one, the carrier cannot access new capital, let alone contemplate privatization. The government is counting heavily on Abdulgani's banking experience to pilot the airline through the severe turbulence. And we think he is clean.
Integrity is certainly a major concern.
Besides contracts with politically favored associates, Garuda has suffered from other types of graft. The difference would be eaten up along the chain of managers and middle-men. The carrier has canceled overpriced leases. Management has also changed inflight menus and updated attendants' uniforms. Swissair has taken over the maintenance of Garuda's six Airbus 330 jets.