Jember-Surabaya flights enhance connectivity and boost economic growth
Jember, East Java — Regent Muhammad Fawait stated that the resumption of Jember-Surabaya flights at Notohadinegoro Airport will strengthen regional connectivity and boost the local economy in Jember and surrounding areas.
Regent Fawait, known as Gus Fawait, alongside Lion Group President Director Daniel Putut Kuncoro Adi and MP Rifki Abdul Halim, inaugurated Wings Air’s inaugural flight on the Surabaya-Jember-Surabaya route on Monday, coinciding with Pancasila’s Birth Anniversary at Notohadinegoro Airport.
‘The Jember-Surabaya flight isn’t merely about faster travel times but also opens greater opportunities for regional development,’ said Gus Fawait.
He added that the Jember Regency Government remains committed to expanding accessibility to drive economic growth and public welfare.
‘Optimising Notohadinegoro Airport is now aimed not just at short domestic routes, but as a gateway connecting to major Indonesian cities and internationally,’ he said.
He noted that with the airport now linked to economic hubs in Jakarta and Bali, and now Surabaya, a major growth centre in East Java, this is expected to attract more investment for regional development.
‘Given Jember has the highest number of Hajj pilgrims in East Java, this connectivity will simplify travel for those going to Mecca or Medina via direct Jember-Surabaya flights,’ he said.
The resumption of Jember-Surabaya flights is expected to increase mobility and drive growth in tourism, investment, and development in Jember and surrounding areas.
Meanwhile, Lion Group President Director Daniel Putut Kuncoro Adi said the Surabaya-Jember-Surabaya route operates four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, offering more travel options.
‘The flight enhances inter-regional ties, shortens travel time between Surabaya and Jember, and integrates with Lion Group’s flight network,’ he said.
He added that air transport closer to the public provides more efficient and comfortable travel compared to longer road journeys, boosting tourism to Jember.
MP Rifki Abdul Halim noted that the road journey between Surabaya and Jember takes 4-5 hours, but the flight reduces it to 40 minutes.
‘This flight represents equitable connectivity for regions, and the launch on 1 June 2026 is an application of Pancasila principles for social justice,’ he said.
The Jember (JBB) to Surabaya (SUB) flight, lasting around 40 minutes, is priced between Rp677,000, but the Jember Regency Government is still finalising an ideal pricing scheme to ensure accessibility for all citizens.