International Airport and the community

International Airport and the community

From Kompas

Since its operation, the Soekarno-Hatta airport in Cengkareng has financially benefited Perum Angkasa Pura II as the airport management company and the city administration of Tangerang, while its negative impact has to be experienced by the community near its runway.

We live in an educational institution near the airport runway, so that classes have to be halted when airliners take off or land due to their rumble. The sound of jet engines also causes the window panes to tremor and sleeping problems, while speakers and radios are often disturbed by the air traffic control tower's frequency.

The question is whether there is any concern over the conditions of surrounding residents or any compensation for the disadvantages. Even the mosque we built, which is now also used by personnel of the airport, was financed with contributions from local people and philanthropists.

It is regrettable that Perum Angkasa Pura II has not been responsive at least to the community complaints about the noise caused by plane arrivals and departures, though most residents choose to remain silent.

AHMAD TAUFIQ H Tangerang, Banten