The aviation industry in Indonesia continues to grow, driven by increasing demand for domestic and international travel. However, entering this competitive market is no easy feat — something Indonesia Airlines is currently experiencing. Despite plans to operate in Indonesia’s airspace, the airline has yet to officially launch due to regulatory hurdles and incomplete licensing requirements.
According to a recent report from Detik Finance, Indonesia Airlines has not submitted the necessary permits to the Ministry of Transportation, specifically to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (Ditjen Perhubungan Udara) — the body responsible for overseeing airline operations in the country (Detik Finance, “Indonesia Airlines Belum Bisa Kepakkan Sayap di Langit RI, Ini Sebabnya”).
What’s Holding Indonesia Airlines Back?
Before operating, any airline in Indonesia must obtain two essential certifications:
✅ Scheduled Commercial Air Transport Business License (SIUAUNB)
This license grants the airline the right to operate scheduled commercial flights within Indonesia.
✅ Air Operator Certificate (AOC)
The AOC ensures that the airline meets safety and operational standards, including fleet readiness, pilot qualifications, maintenance procedures, and overall compliance with aviation laws.
As of today, Indonesia Airlines has not applied for either certification, making it illegal for the airline to commence flight operations.
Government’s Official Statement
Acting Director General of Civil Aviation, Lukman F. Laisa, clarified the situation:
“We confirm that until now, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has not received applications for the Scheduled Commercial Air Transport Business License or the Air Operator Certificate under the name Indonesia Airlines.”
This means that despite the airline’s growing public exposure and online presence, it remains inactive and unlicensed to fly in Indonesian airspace.
The Legal Framework: PM 35 of 2021
Based on Ministry of Transportation Regulation Number PM 35 of 2021, any business entity planning to operate scheduled commercial air transportation must follow a strict licensing process, including:
✔ Submitting administrative and technical documents
✔ Proving operational readiness
✔ Meeting safety standards set by aviation authorities
Only after completing this process can an airline legally operate in Indonesia.
What This Means for Passengers and the Aviation Industry
For now, Indonesia Airlines remains grounded until it fulfills all regulatory requirements. Without the SIUAUNB and AOC, the airline cannot sell tickets, operate flights, or conduct any air transport activities.
This situation highlights the importance of strict aviation regulations in Indonesia — designed to ensure passenger safety, service reliability, and compliance with international standards.
Noble Properties Asia Insight: Navigating Indonesia’s Growing Aviation Sector
As Indonesia’s air travel demand continues to rise, new players like Indonesia Airlines will need to navigate these regulatory challenges carefully. For expats and investors, it’s a reminder that Indonesia’s business landscape requires compliance and patience, especially in heavily regulated sectors like aviation.
🌏 Looking to invest or relocate to Indonesia? Noble Properties Asia offers guidance and insight to help you navigate the local market with confidence. 🌏
Source:
- Detik Finance. “Indonesia Airlines Belum Bisa Kepakkan Sayap di Langit RI, Ini Sebabnya.” Available at: https://finance.detik.com/berita-ekonomi-bisnis/d-7838091/indonesia-airlines-belum-bisa-kepakkan-sayap-di-langit-ri-ini-sebabnya
