INACA Encourages Development of Electric Helicopter Ecosystem
Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) technology, or electric helicopters, is considered to have the potential to strengthen connectivity in Indonesia while supporting economic growth in various regions. This mode of air transport is seen as capable of complementing the transport network to industrial areas, tourist destinations, and remote areas.
Chairman of the Indonesia National Air Carriers Association (INACA) Denon Prawiraatmadja said Indonesia’s geographical character as an archipelagic nation gives eVTOL broader potential utilisation beyond just urban air taxi services. “Indonesia has the opportunity to become one of the most advanced countries in eVTOL implementation. Not only for urban mobility, but also supporting short-distance inter-island connectivity, remote areas, industrial zones, and new economic growth centres,” Denon said in a statement in Jakarta on Thursday (23/7/2026).
According to Denon, the distribution of industrial zones, production centres, tourism destinations, and natural resource areas across various islands requires a transport system capable of accelerating mobility. In such conditions, eVTOL can be utilised as a connecting mode to airports, for short-distance inter-island travel, emergency services, and access to new economic zones. “The measure of success is whether this technology can shorten travel time, open new access, and create economic value,” he said.
Nevertheless, Denon emphasised that eVTOL development must be supported by aviation safety aspects, certification, operator readiness, and infrastructure before commercial operations begin. “The technology may evolve, but the principles of aviation remain the same. Safety must be the primary foundation before we talk about the scale of operations and fleet size,” he stated.
He also urged that Indonesia should not merely become a market for global eVTOL manufacturers, but should also help build the industrial ecosystem. According to him, eVTOL development needs to encompass operational models, infrastructure, financing, and integration with airports, land transport, business districts, and digital platforms to support national connectivity more efficiently.