25-3-2024 (JAKARTA) Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, announced that the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has approved the proposal for Indonesia to take over the Flight Information Region (FIR) previously controlled by Singapore. This transfer of air space control marks a significant milestone in the aviation industry’s development in the region.
Previously, Singapore had jurisdiction over the air space above the Riau and Natuna Islands, encompassing altitudes from 0 to 37,000 feet. Minister Luhut revealed this information on Saturday, March 23, stating that he received the report while undergoing medical treatment and recovery in Singapore on January 11, 2024.
Following the publication of information regarding these changes, a 60-day transition period commenced, ultimately resulting in the complete handover of the Singapore FIR to Indonesia. With this official implementation, Minister Luhut emphasized that the government’s aviation policy will enhance safety, competitiveness, and attractiveness of Indonesia’s air space for the civil aviation industry.
“Our aim is to manage Indonesian air space in a way that ensures safety, efficiency, aligns with national interests, and meets international civil aviation service standards,” stated Minister Luhut.
In addition to the FIR agreement, Minister Luhut highlighted that defense cooperation and fugitive extradition agreements between Indonesia and Singapore have also been put into effect. These agreements address long-standing bilateral issues and signify a positive step towards strengthening relations between the two countries.
Minister Luhut credited the diplomatic efforts of Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Long for facilitating the establishment of these agreements. However, he emphasized that national interests should not be compromised in the process.
Acting upon President Joko Widodo’s directives, Minister Luhut actively engaged in constructive communication with Singapore Senior Minister Teo Che Hean to ensure mutual understanding and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both nations.
