Enjoy Watching Planes at Soetta Perimeter? Here's Why Officials Regularly Clear the Area

TANGERANG, KOMPAS.com – Security personnel at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Soetta) regularly clear civilians and vendors from the northern perimeter road area. The enforcement is carried out as the area forms part of the airport zone adjacent to operational flight areas. ‘We urge the public not to engage in activities in areas that could compromise security, safety, and flight operations,’ said Yudistiawan, Assistant Deputy for Communication and Legal at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, on Sunday, 31 May 2026. The perimeter zone serves a security function as it directly borders operational airport areas. Therefore, the public is advised against loitering near security fences or restricted zones. ‘We understand the public’s interest in watching aircraft operations at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. However, the perimeter is part of the airport’s designated area with specific regulations concerning security, safety, and order,’ Yudistiawan added. Kompas.com observed on Saturday, 16 May 2026, that crowds gathered along the northern perimeter road facing the runways. Street vendors were also selling items such as iced drinks, bakso (meatball soup), cilok (tapioca balls), and sushi in the area. Motorcycles were parked along the roadside, with some visitors sitting on mats provided by vendors. Some visitors even brought children to enjoy the airport atmosphere. When planes were taking off or landing, spectators were seen using mobile phones to record the moments. Despite the ban, public interest in gathering at the site remains strong. When aviation security officers arrived in patrol cars and motorcycles, vendors quickly tidied up their stalls. Civilians and vendors were then instructed to vacate the restricted area and move back behind the perimeter fencing. One vendor, Kiki (27), said the area is consistently crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. ‘I’ve been here for a year; it’s always busy on holidays. Tomorrow’s Sunday, so it’ll be even busier,’ Kiki said.