CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER STEPHEN WILKS HAS BEEN A KEY PLAYER IN THE TRANSFORMATION OF MANDALA AIRLINES. HE SPOKE WITH MANDALA EDITOR LUKE CLARK

Mandala’s transformation has been unique from an aviation viewpoint. How has it been for you?
The challenge I expected when I took the job has certainly lived up to expectations. Transforming a legacy carrier into a modern-generation, low-fare carrier is sometimes more difficult than starting afresh with a new airline.

What convinced you to make the leap when you were offered it?
I have had an interest in the low-cost carrier (LCC) model since my days with Air New Zealand, and I’ve been involved in several LCC scoping projects. We have excellent and supportive shareholders. It was the combination of shareholders, the management team and the prospects of turning around an Indonesian airline that were the clinching factors for me. There are tremendous opportunities for a well-run airline in Indonesia.

In terms of your role, what have the highlights been so far?
The focus and company-wide support on safety and quality aspects of running the airline. The transformation that we’ve been able to make in terms of achieving on-time performance, consistent 30-minute turnarounds, and the transition to international aviation standards. We have achieved major positive changes in the way Mandala Airlines conducts its business.

What are the challenges for Mandala now?
The same challenge as for all airlines: keeping costs under control and still being able to present a product that is going to win the support of the public. The hard decisions made by the shareholders and management to quickly phase out the older-technology fleet, and to re-fleet with the modern Airbus aircraft, have really given us a competitive advantage. The next challenge will be handling the introduction of four new aircraft in 2008 and eight new aircraft in 2009. An aircraft every one and a half months will be good going in this environment.

What about the personal highlights for you?
Living in Jakarta is really enjoyable. And the opportunity to explore Indonesia which is a wonderfully diverse and exciting country, with many places of interest. Certainly I am looking forward to seeing a lot more of Indonesia in my time here.

Background: A qualified accountant, New Zealander Stephen Wilks’ extensive aviation experience includes six years in Papua New Guinea as CFO and executive general manager of corporate services of the national flag carrier, Air Niugini. He also spent 11 years with the Air New Zealand group, including general manager of Air Nelson. In 2006, Wilks was awarded the Queen’s Honour of Honorary Member of the Order of Logohu for his contribution to Papua New Guinea aviation.

LETTERS TO THE CEO

I flew from Semarang to Jakarta on 4 May by RI 295 and found Mandala was using a better aircraft, probably a new one.

I enjoyed sitting in the aircraft because the space between the front row and back row gave me more space to place my feet. I hop e that all Mandala aircraft will be designed with better and more comfortable seats and that Mandala will keep flying to a more punctual time schedule. Thank you and congratulations to you.
Yours sincerely, Th. Wanda

I fly at least four to five times a month and ever since Mandala has begun using the A320, I haven’t used any other airline. I previously thought other carriers were safer, but now they aren’t even close to Mandala. Congrats, now you’re simply the best!
Best regards, Donan Aditria MCIM

I run a construction group based in Singapore with operations in Bali. My current schedule requires me to spend a lot of time between Surabaya and Bali. I usually fly weekly, and I choo se Mandala for all of the points you outlined in this month’s Mandala magazine. However, most important for me is the fantastic, amiable service your cabin staff provides. Hats off to Mandala!
Kind regards, Cyrus Tavakoli