Dirgantara Festival 2026 Reinforces Indonesian Air Force’s Ties with Public

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) said the 2026 Dirgantara Festival serves as a momentum to strengthen its ties with the public while showcasing its role in supporting development and community welfare. Chief of Staff of the Air Force Air Marshal Tonny Harjono stated that the Air Force is part of the people, and all its duties are carried out in the public interest.

“We want to show that the military belongs to the people and grows stronger with the people. Everything we do is for the benefit of the public,” he said in a statement received in Jakarta on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

He added that in recent months, the Air Force has conducted various social programs, including free medical services, cleft lip surgeries, cataract operations, distribution of free eyeglasses, assistance for people with disabilities and the elderly, as well as educational outreach for students.

Meanwhile, Southeast Sulawesi Governor Andi Sumangerukka expressed appreciation for the Air Force’s dedication in safeguarding national airspace and contributing to national development. He also thanked the Air Force for selecting Southeast Sulawesi as the host of the 2026 Dirgantara Festival.

He said the event holds strategic value as a platform for education, inspiration, and public entertainment, while also strengthening synergy between the Air Force and local governments.

The festival featured a range of aerial attractions, including paramotor and microlight trike performances, free-fall demonstrations, as well as development exhibitions and small and medium enterprise (SME) bazaars, which were enthusiastically received by the public.

As part of the closing ceremony, the Air Force Chief, along with regional leadership officials, planted fruit trees and handed over seedlings to community representatives in Kendari. The synergy between the Air Force, local governments, and the community is expected to continue strengthening as a key foundation for accelerating regional development.