Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi appreciated travelers who followed the government’s appeal to depart for home early during the Eid exodus period to avoid overcrowding which is predicted to occur on April 28-30, 2022.
Sumadi conveyed this statement during his inspection at the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Tangerang, Banten on Sunday.
“Earlier, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport had around 400 aircraft movements per day. However, (the number of aircraft movements) has increased to 900 per day. The occupancy is close to 100 percent. This means that the early exodus recommendation has been carried out,” Sumadi explained.
He also informed that he had asked some passengers about their reasons for going home early.
“Passengers who deliberately go home say in addition to avoiding overcrowding on peak days, ticket prices are also cheaper,” he said.
During his inspection at the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Sumadi led a joint ceremony comprising airport officers from the ministry’s airport authority, state-owned airport operator Angkasa Pura II, Airnav Indonesia, Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, Port Health Office (KKP), Indonesian Military (TNI), the National Police, and other related ranks.
Sumadi explained that safety is an important aspect to be prepared for, starting from the inspection of airworthiness through ramp check activities, as well as health checks on flight crews.
In addition, he emphasized that the aircraft fleet availability, health requirement checks, and implementation of health protocols are also the main concerns.
He stated that with good coordination and communication between related parties, this year’s exodus can be carried out well, as what has been done when handling flights for Umrah pilgrims some time ago.
“To the officers, do it strictly but still politely, friendly, and kindly. Let’s together realize a safe and healthy exodus,” he said.
According to Air Transportation Director General Novie Riyanto, the ministry predicted that at least 8.9 million people will travel for exodus by flights.
Source: Antara News