Bobby Nasution Inaugurates First Wings Air Flight from Kualanamu to Mandailing Natal
The Governor of North Sumatra, Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution, has inaugurated the inaugural flight of Wings Air on the route from Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) to Jenderal Besar A.H. Nasution Airport in Mandailing Natal Regency. This new route is expected to strengthen inter-regional connectivity, accelerate public mobility, and drive economic growth within North Sumatra.
The inauguration took place at Kualanamu International Airport, Deli Serdang Regency, on Saturday (1/8/2026). The event was attended by the board of directors of Lion Group, the management of PT Angkasa Pura Aviasi, members of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), members of the North Sumatra Regional House of Representatives (DPRD Sumut), local leaders, and relevant aviation agencies.
In his address, Bobby Nasution stated that the opening of this new flight route is more than just a ceremonial event; it is a strategic step to reduce travel time and improve accessibility for residents of both Medan and Mandailing Natal. “Previously, our people from Mandailing Natal who wished to return home or travel to Medan had to endure long land journeys or fly through neighbouring provinces such as West Sumatra first. With this direct route, distance and time can be significantly reduced,” said Bobby.
According to Bobby, this new air connectivity will have a positive impact on economic strengthening, increase public mobility, and accelerate regional growth in North Sumatra.
In addition to inaugurating the new route, Bobby also expressed aspirations regarding the development of the aviation industry at Kualanamu Airport. He emphasised the importance of central government support, particularly concerning the efficiency of aviation fuel (avtur) prices and the provision of tax incentives, so that Kualanamu can optimise its role as the primary gateway for western Indonesia.
Bobby expressed hope that policy adjustments regarding avtur prices and Value Added Tax (VAT) could lower airline operational costs. This, he noted, would make Kualanamu Airport increasingly attractive to investors, including for the development of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities by both national and international airlines. These aspirations were conveyed directly to the members of the Indonesian House of Representatives in attendance to ensure they are advocated for at the central government level.
During the same event, the Director of Commercial and Business Development of PT Angkasa Pura Aviasi, Kedar Deshpande, expressed appreciation for the synergy established between the North Sumatra Provincial Government and all relevant stakeholders.