East Java Transportation Agency Studies Hydrofoil Fast Boats for Island Routes

Surabaya (ANTARA) - The East Java Transport Agency is studying the utilisation of fast boats based on hydrofoil technology to strengthen inter-island maritime transport connectivity within the region.

“This is an extraordinary technological proposal because it is capable of accelerating travel time for the community,” said the Head of the East Java Transport Agency, Nyono, in Surabaya on Sunday.

He explained that hydrofoil fast boats have speeds of approximately 20 to 40 knots, which can significantly reduce travel duration compared to the conventional vessels currently in use.

According to Nyono, this technology has the potential to support the development of the East Java Sea Transport (Trans Laut Jawa Timur) programme, which connects several island territories.

The vessels are designed with a capacity of around 125 passengers, making them more suitable for current demand levels compared to large-capacity ships that require higher operational costs.

He cited the previous Banyuwangi-Bali fast boat service as an example of the challenges faced, where vessel capacities reached approximately 400 passengers while passenger numbers had not yet reached optimal levels. Consequently, operators required subsidy support to maintain operations.

In addition to passenger services, hydrofoil technology is also being proposed to support logistics and inter-island ferry transport.

Nyono stated that the East Java Transport Agency will continue to study the proposal as part of an effort to improve accessibility for island communities while accelerating the mobility of goods and people across the islands in East Java.

According to him, the development of fast and efficient maritime transport is a vital necessity to support the economic growth of the island regions within the province.