International Flights to Middle East Operating Normally, Transport Ministry Clarifies
Indonesia’s Ministry of Transport (Kemenhub) has assured the public that international flight operations are continuing amidst the dynamic situation in the Middle East region.
Responding to widespread reports claiming that all international flights had been suspended due to the situation in the Middle East, the Ministry of Transport’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation stated that such reports are inaccurate.
“We are continuously and intensively monitoring the developments in international flight operations affected by the Middle East situation, and ensuring that passenger handling is proceeding smoothly, safely, and in a coordinated manner,” said Director General of Civil Aviation Lukman F. Laisa in a statement in Jakarta on Tuesday, 17 March.
As of 17 March 2026 at 10:30 WIB, Laisa reported that only two aircraft remain stranded in Indonesia—one at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and one at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, both operated by Qatar Airways.
With the reopening of United Arab Emirates airspace, several carriers have resumed limited operations. Emirates has conducted limited flights from and to Jakarta and Denpasar, though operations were temporarily affected by disruptions at fuel farm facilities at Dubai Airport on 16 March 2026, causing delays and flight schedule adjustments.
“Handling of affected passengers is ongoing, including the gradual transport of stranded passengers,” Laisa explained.
Etihad Airways has also resumed limited flights and is planning to increase flight frequencies as part of contingency measures, particularly on Jakarta and Denpasar to Abu Dhabi routes.
Qatar Airways has been conducting repatriation flights since 8 March 2026 and is gradually reopening limited services from Jakarta. Affected passengers, including pilgrims, have been managed through refund mechanisms, rescheduling, and transfers to other carriers. As of 16 March 2026, no stranded passengers remain in Jeddah under Qatar Airways’ handling.
Airlines providing direct flights to Saudi Arabia, including Saudi Arabian Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Flyadeal, continue operating normally and remain unaffected by the conflict.
Additionally, indirect flights through third countries operated by various international carriers have returned to normal operations and are ready to accommodate passenger travel requirements.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation will continue coordinating with all stakeholders, including civil aviation authorities, airport operators, and carriers, to ensure smooth flight operations and provide optimal protection and service to all passengers.
“The public is urged to continuously monitor official information from carriers and relevant authorities and adjust travel plans according to current developments,” Laisa said.