AHY Prepares Kertajati as Aerospace Industry Hub, Targets Investment in Rebana Area

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has announced that the government is preparing Kertajati International Airport (BIJB) in West Java to become a national aerospace hub. The development will be carried out by establishing an integrated aerospace industry ecosystem within the Rebana area. The initiative was marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding between PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) and PT Bandar Udara Internasional Jawa Barat (BIJB) Perseroda regarding the phased relocation of PTDI’s activities to Kertajati. According to AHY, the collaboration represents a significant milestone in strengthening the national aerospace industry whilst promoting equitable regional development. “What we are building is not just reviving the airport, but also developing an aerospace ecosystem, including for both civil and military purposes,” AHY stated after the signing ceremony in Jakarta on Wednesday. He explained that the government is pursuing a dual strategy for PTDI’s development. Bandung will be retained as a centre for innovation, research, design, and human resource development. Meanwhile, Kertajati will be focused on operations, production, final aircraft assembly, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), as well as flight testing. AHY noted that the expansion is necessary because PTDI’s production facilities in Bandung face land and capacity constraints for further growth. In contrast, Kertajati offers ample land, improving logistical access, and is supported by connectivity to Patimban Port and the toll road network.