“As our nation is mourning in the wake of the recent major disasters, reliable air transport and smooth air traffic have become vital to support the distribution of logistics,” he noted in a statement cited in Jakarta.
Speaking after reopening the route at Kualanamu Airport on Monday, Iskandar emphasized that connectivity between the two airports is essential to allow smooth and swift delivery of emergency goods and items to residents affected by floods and landslides in Aceh Province.
On that note, he spoke of having directly contacted Rusdi Kirana, owner of Lion Air Group, to help push for the reactivation of the vital air transport route amid the emergencies.
“Flights from Kualanamu to Rembele facilitated by Lion Air can make it easier for the government to deliver items urgently needed by Aceh people, especially those in Bener Meriah and Takengon (Central Aceh) districts,” he pointed out.
He suggested that the flight frequency on the Kualanamu–Rembele route be increased to accelerate emergency measures and ease public mobility from North Sumatra to Aceh Tengah, Bener Meriah, and Gayo Lues districts in Aceh.
The minister also stressed the importance of all elements of society working hand in hand to expedite emergency and rehabilitation measures in multiple cities and districts in three provinces that have been reeling from disasters triggered by heavy rainfall in late November.
Reflecting the government’s commitment to disaster response, Iskandar joined the passengers on the first flight of the reactivated route, aiming to reach Bener Meriah to directly assess conditions and help distribute aid to residents.
From Bener Meriah, he is scheduled to return to Kualanamu for a flight to Aceh Tamiang District for a similar agenda.
The Kualanamu–Rembele route is served by ATR-72 aircraft with a maximum capacity of 72 passengers. Ideal for short- and medium-distance flights, this type of plane is well-suited for navigating airports located in hilly terrain, such as Rembele.
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Translator: Prisca T, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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