The Indonesian Post
The Deputy Minister of Transportation, Suntana, has indicated that the regulation regarding the conversion of the Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN) Airport in East Kalimantan into a commercial airport has not yet been discussed, particularly in relation to revising Presidential Regulation Number 131 of 2023 concerning the change of status of the VVIP airport. "We will observe for a year or two; it cannot be done immediately. We must avoid creating a regulation that ultimately becomes ineffective and is not adhered to," stated the Deputy Minister during the Integrated Graduation Ceremony of the Ministry of Transportation's Cadet School in Jakarta on Thursday. He explained that if the IKN Airport is to be designated as a commercial airport, a revision of Presidential Regulation Number 131 of 2023 will be necessary. "That is certainly required (the revision of Presidential Regulation Number 131 of 2023). If it is indeed for the public, the regulation must be flexible and adapt to the dynamics and interests of the community," he remarked. However, he acknowledged that the revision of the presidential regulation has not been planned yet, although his office considers taking this step within one to two years to ensure that the regulations remain relevant and function optimally to support the IKN Airport. "Nevertheless, we do need laws or regulations moving forward to anticipate future developments," he added. Currently, the IKN Airport has received a code from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which is WALK, indicating that it is now listed among airports worldwide. However, the IKN Airport has not yet received a code from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for commercial flight services. The Ministry of Transportation, as part of the government, continues to follow up on various aspects of development in IKN, particularly in the transportation sector, including the status and operational readiness of the airport. The Deputy Minister of Transportation emphasized that each airport undergoes various stages of development, ranging from domestic to international operations, as well as from passenger services to cargo facilities, in order to meet transportation needs Although the development of airports is inherently dynamic, the government is committed to ensuring that all phases progress in accordance with community requirements and support economic growth in the IKN region. "The IKN is designated as a National Strategic Project, and we will continue to pursue development there across all aspects, including transportation, airport readiness, airport status, and more. Essentially, we will persist in following through on our established targets," stated the Deputy Minister. Furthermore, the Deputy Minister expressed hope that the IKN Airport in East Kalimantan could be commercialized by 2026, thereby enhancing connectivity and fostering economic growth in the surrounding IKN area. "(Does this mean we hope it will be commercialized by 2026?). We hope so, and we pray together for the community," remarked the Deputy Minister.