Learnmistake – As of April 2025, the Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has reinstated international status to three airports, aiming to enhance regional connectivity and support economic growth. This decision is part of a broader strategy to optimize the nation’s aviation infrastructure following the reduction of international airports from 34 to 17 in 2024.
1. Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport (Palembang, South Sumatra)
On April 25, 2025, Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport regained its international status through Ministerial Decree Number KM 26 of 2025. Previously downgraded to domestic status in 2024, the airport’s reinstatement followed a formal request by the Acting Governor of South Sumatra, emphasizing the region’s need for international connectivity. The airport is now expected to meet stringent international standards in safety, security, and service quality.
2. H.A.S. Hanandjoeddin Airport (Tanjung Pandan, Bangka Belitung)
Also included in the April 2025 decree, H.A.S. Hanandjoeddin Airport in Bangka Belitung province has been reinstated as an international airport. This move aims to boost tourism and facilitate international travel to the island region, which had previously seen its international status revoked.
3. Jenderal Ahmad Yani Airport (Semarang, Central Java)
Jenderal Ahmad Yani Airport in Semarang has also regained its international status as per the same ministerial decree. The reinstatement is expected to enhance Central Java’s accessibility to international destinations, promoting economic and tourism development in the region.
These reinstatements reflect the Indonesian government’s commitment to strengthening the aviation sector and ensuring that key regions have the necessary infrastructure to support international travel and