adminThe Indonesian National Air Carriers Association (INACA) recently highlighted the significant benefits of the government’s decision to reduce the number of international airports. This strategic consolidation, from 34 to 17, is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing efficiency and optimizing the nation’s air transportation system. INACA believes this move will streamline operations and boost overall industry performance, fostering a more competitive environment.
According to INACA, a key advantage of fewer international gateways is improved airline operational efficiency. By concentrating international flights at fewer, more robust hubs, airlines can optimize their routes, reduce empty legs, and maximize aircraft utilization. This directly translates to lower operational costs, which can ultimately benefit consumers through more competitive ticket prices and better flight schedules.
Moreover, the consolidation allows for a more focused allocation of resources for infrastructure development. Instead of spreading investments thinly across numerous airports, the government and airport operators can concentrate on upgrading facilities at the 17 designated international hubs. This ensures these key airports meet global standards, offering superior services and greater capacity for international arrivals and departures.
INACA also emphasized that this strategy supports the growth of major tourism destinations. The selected international airports are primarily those serving popular tourist regions and major economic centers. By channeling international traffic through these hubs, the government can more effectively promote specific tourism areas, increasing visitor numbers and boosting local economies.
The move is expected to simplify immigration and customs procedures at the main international airports. With fewer entry points, authorities can allocate more personnel and advanced technology to these specific locations, enhancing security and efficiency. This will create a smoother and more welcoming experience for international travelers arriving in Indonesia, improving overall guest satisfaction.
Furthermore, a more centralized international airport system can strengthen Indonesia’s position as a regional aviation hub. By developing a few world-class airports with excellent connectivity, Indonesia can attract more transit passengers and cargo, increasing its share of the global aviation market. This is crucial for long-term economic growth and development, establishing new connections.