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The Danger Of Hot Air Balloons Can Disrupt Flights And Trigger Explosions

The tradition of flying hot air balloons without control is once again popular among people in East Java, Central Java, and the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Although it is entertaining, this habit can cause serious dangers, both for residents and flight activities. 

Deputy Chairperson of the Empowerment and Regional Development of the Indonesian Transportation Society (MTI) Center Djoko Setijowarno reminded the public not to fly hot air balloons carelessly. 

"People's actions in flying hot air balloons without being equipped with sufficient knowledge can endanger flights and harm the community," said Djoko when contacted by detikJatim, Saturday (6/4/2025). 

He gave an example of an incident in Tulungagung, where a hot air balloon loaded with firecrackers fell onto a house and car belonging to a resident in Gandong Village, Bandung District, causing damage to houses, cars, and resulting in injuries. This is because the hot air balloon was also equipped with a series of firecrackers. 

Djoko explained that traditional hot air balloons can fly up to an altitude of 30,000 feet, which is the route for commercial aircraft traffic. If sucked into the engine, the balloon can cause the aircraft engine to stall, catch fire, or even explode. 

Based on Ministerial Regulation Number 40 of 2018, the use of hot air balloons in community cultural activities must follow strict rules. Among them, balloons must be tethered, not contain explosives, and flown in a safe location and far from the airport. 

"Every violator can be subject to a two-year prison sentence and a fine of IDR 500 million according to Law Number 1 of 2009. If the balloon is equipped with firecrackers, the sanctions can be even heavier, even up to 20 years in prison according to Emergency Law Number 12 of 1951," explained Djoko. 

In addition, activities such as hot air balloons, kites, drones, and lasers are also prohibited in the Flight Operations Safety Area (KKOP). The Minister of Home Affairs has also issued a circular to regional heads to supervise the areas around the airport for flight safety. 

Djoko hopes that the implementation of hot air balloon entertainment will be strictly supervised and carried out according to regulations. For example, the hot air balloon festival from the Wonosobo Regency Government which is also a tourist icon. 

"The balloons that are flown must be tethered with ropes. So that the balloons do not fly freely," he concluded. 

Tag: East Java Indonesian Transportation Society Yogyakarta