Indonesia’s Transportation Ministry has launched its 2026 program of subsidized pioneer air services, aimed at improving connectivity across the archipelago. The initiative focuses on what are known as 3TP regions – underdeveloped, frontier, outermost, and border areas – and began with the first subsidized flight operating from Manado on Monday.
Strengthening Regional Links
According to the Transportation Ministry, these flights are vital for connecting remote communities. Ambar Suryoko, Head of the Manado Airport Authority Region VIII, stated that the services demonstrate a commitment to inter-regional connectivity for those in these areas. “Pioneer flights are crucial in supporting community mobility in 3TP regions,” Suryoko said.
The flights, operated by PT Asi Pudjiastuti Aviation (Susi Air), utilize a 12-seat Cessna Grand Caravan C 208 B aircraft. Services connect North Sulawesi, Central Sulawesi, and Gorontalo, operating six days a week, from Monday to Saturday.
Flight Schedules
The routes vary throughout the week. Mondays and Wednesdays feature flights between Manado-Siau-Naha and Manado-Melonguane-Miangas. Tuesdays and Thursdays include routes such as Manado-Bolaang-Gorontalo and Gorontalo-Luwuk-Banggai Laut. Friday services focus on Gorontalo-Luwuk-Banggai Laut and Gorontalo-Bolaang, while Saturdays see flights on the Manado-Melonguane route.
The frequency of flights on the Manado-Melonguane route has increased to three times weekly, up from two, in response to demonstrated public demand. The ministry states that these services reduce travel times and offer alternative transportation, supporting both public services and economic activity.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation will continue to monitor these pioneer air services, focusing on safety, compliance, and service quality to maximize benefits for the public.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of these pioneer flights?
The purpose of these flights is to strengthen connectivity across Indonesia, particularly in underdeveloped, frontier, outermost and border areas known as 3TP, and to support community mobility in these regions.
Who operates the flights?
The flights are operated by PT Asi Pudjiastuti Aviation (Susi Air) using a 12-seat Cessna Grand Caravan C 208 B aircraft.
What areas are connected by these flights?
The pioneer services connect North Sulawesi, Central Sulawesi and Gorontalo through a scheduled network of routes operating from Monday to Saturday.
As the program continues, it may be possible to see expansion of routes or increased flight frequencies based on ongoing evaluations of public need and operational performance.
