Indonesia Strengthens Aviation Ecosystem Through Aero Summit 2026

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation is strengthening the national aviation ecosystem by hosting the Indonesia Aero Summit (IAS) 2026. This initiative aims to improve air connectivity and enhance the competitiveness of Indonesia’s aviation industry.

The Director of Airworthiness and Aircraft Operations at the Ministry’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Sokhib Al Rokhman, stated that the forum serves as a platform for collaboration among all aviation stakeholders, including airlines, airports, AirNav, the aircraft manufacturing industry, and other industry partners.

“Collaboration among all stakeholders is necessary to maintain the competitiveness of Indonesia’s aviation industry so that it can compete sustainably at both the regional and global levels,” Sokhib said during the opening of IAS 2026 in Jakarta on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

According to Sokhib, strengthening the aviation sector is a critical need for Indonesia, given its geographical nature as an archipelago. Inter‑island connectivity via air transport is considered vital in supporting public mobility and economic activities.

The Ministry is also promoting the development of human resources in the aviation sector. Sokhib noted that many professionals, particularly engineers, possess high levels of expertise and are working for foreign companies, especially in the Middle East.

In addition to human resources, the government also highlighted the importance of strengthening the supply chain, advancing technological innovation, and developing the aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) industry.

Sokhib explained that these efforts are necessary to maintain safety standards and ensure the growth of the national aircraft fleet. “So that our fleet continues to grow in size and remains sustainable,” he said.

Through IAS 2026, the Ministry, together with the aviation industry, is also opening up opportunities for investment and the development of aviation technology in Indonesia.

The forum also promoted cooperation between state‑owned oil and gas company Pertamina and Boeing to develop Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as part of efforts to reduce emissions in the aviation sector.

The Chairman of the Indonesian National Air Carriers Association (INACA), Denon Prawiraatmadja, said that collaboration between the government and the industry is key to addressing global economic challenges and geopolitical dynamics.

“So, hopefully, through this event, there will be significant participation from all OEMs, who will view Indonesia not only as a passenger market but also as an investment destination supporting industrial progress, particularly in technology, which continues to evolve,” said Denon. ***