He emphasized that airports should not merely serve as symbols of development but must bring tangible benefits to surrounding communities.
Danang highlighted that several airports in areas with significant tourism and economic prospects deserve serious attention. Among them are Dewandaru Airport in Karimunjawa, Jepara District, and Ngloram Airport in Blora District, Central Java.
Both airports, he said, play a strategic role in strengthening inter-regional connectivity and supporting the growth of tourism and local economies.
Karimunjawa, known as one of Central Java’s prime tourism destinations, requires enhanced air connectivity to attract more visitors.
“Dewandaru Airport in Karimunjawa must be optimized as it has great potential to support national tourism. Likewise, Ngloram Airport in Blora can open new economic access in the border area between Central and East Java,” Danang said here on Thursday.
He underlined that maintaining consistent flight services at both airports is crucial to ensuring long-term economic benefits.
Therefore, he encouraged the Ministry of Transportation to collaborate with airlines and relevant stakeholders to ensure regular flight schedules.
In addition to maintaining operational continuity, Danang also suggested expanding flight routes to Karimunjawa, not only from Semarang but also from major cities such as Jakarta and Bali.
This effort, he said, could improve accessibility for tourists and enhance the island’s appeal as a destination.
Danang further called on local governments to take an active role in supporting related infrastructure development.
Road access, ground transportation, and integrated tourism promotion, he noted, must be strengthened to fully unlock the region’s economic and tourism potential.
He expressed optimism that once Dewandaru and Ngloram Airports operate optimally, the surrounding communities’ economies will grow in line with the government’s vision of improving inter-regional connectivity across Indonesia.
“Air transportation is key to equitable development. With strong connectivity, regional potential can grow more rapidly,” he stated.
This call serves as an important signal for both central and regional governments to pay greater attention to smaller airports in potential regions.
With proper management, these airports can evolve beyond transportation facilities to become new economic drivers connecting tourism, trade, and local industries across the Indonesian archipelago.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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