Indonesia’s aviation safety measures in Papua are being tightened through a comprehensive approach. The Transportation Ministry is taking proactive steps to enhance aviation safety in the region by improving operational standards, enhancing navigation facilities, and fostering better coordination among stakeholders. This initiative aims to ensure secure air transport services, recognizing the unique geographical and operational challenges of Papua.
Director General of Air Transportation Lukman F. Laisa emphasized the need for precise and strict supervision in Papua, citing the region’s distinct characteristics. A recent Regional Coordination Meeting of Airports Authority Offices Regions IX and X in Sentani, Papua, was a pivotal moment to align oversight measures and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders across six provinces. The focus was on maintaining safety, security, and air connectivity, which are crucial for supporting local activities.
Laisa highlighted the priority of strengthening technical supervision in Papua. He underscored the importance of upholding aviation safety and security standards, including the certification processes and service standards that must comply with regulations. Pioneer passenger and cargo flights, vital for connectivity in areas with limited land and sea transport access, were also emphasized by Lukman.
To ensure services reach underserved areas, regional pioneer flight coordinators for 2025-2026 have been established based on community needs, isolation levels, and subsidy effectiveness. The program includes fuel transport subsidies for airports without depots, aiming to maintain population mobility, logistics distribution, and access to essential goods. Laisa stressed the targeted nature of the subsidies, ensuring that every rupiah is precisely directed towards ensuring Papuans have access to food, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
The meeting also addressed strategic matters to improve oversight effectiveness, including current security conditions, handling suspected violations of Aviation Law No. 1/2009, and ensuring pioneer flights meet operational and safety standards. Employee health was highlighted as a critical element in supporting supervisory duties that carry high operational risks, with the physical and mental readiness of personnel seen as integral to the overall aviation safety ecosystem.
This comprehensive approach to aviation safety in Papua demonstrates Indonesia’s commitment to ensuring secure air transport services in a region with unique challenges. By addressing operational standards, navigation facilities, coordination, and employee health, the Transportation Ministry is taking proactive steps to enhance aviation safety and support local activities in Papua.