Indonesian Air Force Studies East Java Toll Roads as Emergency Aircraft Runways

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is studying the use of toll road sections in East Java as alternative runways for aircraft to support operations when air bases are unavailable during emergencies. Head of the TNI AU Information Service, Air Commodore I Nyoman Suadnyana, stated that several toll road segments are under consideration, including the Probolinggo-Banyuwangi toll road. “It is one of the plans, but it is still under review at this time,” Nyoman said as quoted by Antara on Tuesday (11/8). The plan to utilise toll roads as alternative landing strips was discussed in a meeting led by Vice Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force, Air Marshal Tedi Rizalihadi, at TNI AU Headquarters in Cilangkap, Jakarta, on Monday (10/8). The meeting addressed various technical requirements that must be met for a toll road section to be used as an alternative runway for Air Force aircraft. “The Vice Chief of Staff emphasised that all involved elements must carry out preparations meticulously, prioritising safety and security factors at every stage of the activity,” Nyoman said. According to the TNI AU, the use of toll roads as alternative runways is being prepared to support operational continuity in emergency conditions when air bases cannot be used. The study encompasses technical readiness as well as safety and security aspects before a specific road section can be designated for use. Nyoman confirmed that the Probolinggo-Banyuwangi toll road is among the routes included in the plan, but the TNI AU has not yet determined it as the location to be used. The Air Force will continue its review and technical preparations before the plan to use toll roads as alternative runways can be implemented.