Transportation Ministry strengthens aviation disaster response

Bandung, West Java (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation is strengthening disaster response capabilities through inter-agency coordination to ensure aviation safety, accelerate emergency operations, and maintain the continuity of national air transportation services.

Secretary of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation at the Ministry of Transportation, Achmad Setiyo Prabowo, emphasized that safety remains the top priority in all operational decisions during emergencies to keep public services operating safely and smoothly.

"Our core focus and concern are to ensure every sector within aviation operates safely, securely, comfortably, and seamlessly," Achmad said during a Transportation Journalists Forum workshop in Bandung, West Java, on Friday.

The ministry noted that recent disasters had provided important lessons for strengthening national aviation preparedness, particularly in managing disruptions that could affect airport operations and air travel.

One such event was the forest and land fires across several provinces in Kalimantan and Sumatra.

The situation prompted the ministry to continuously evaluate its response to minimize operational disruptions, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that flights can continue to operate smoothly despite unforeseen emergencies.

Additionally, the management of volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau in September 2026 became a major focal point after forcing the temporary closure of nine airports, impacting 430 flights and 50,000 passengers.

Achmad emphasized that close collaboration among regulators, airport operators, airlines, and other stakeholders was crucial to keeping flight operations under control during emergencies caused by volcanic ash or other natural disasters.

The ministry commended local regulators, airport operators, state-run air navigation service provider AirNav Indonesia, and other stakeholders for their swift action in maintaining smooth flight operations during emergencies.

Achmad added that public communications also play a critical role in disaster response, as timely and accurate information helps the public understand flight conditions and the mitigation efforts being taken by the government and other key stakeholders.

The Ministry of Transportation is committed to strengthening its preparedness system through routine evaluations, improved coordination, and stronger safety protocols to keep national air transport services running smoothly despite ongoing disaster risks.

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Translator: Muhammad Harianto, Raka Adji
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo
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