Loitering in the Soekarno-Hatta Airport Perimeter is Officially Prohibited, but Residents Continue to Visit

TANGERANG, KOMPAS.com - Residents and vendors acknowledge that loitering in the northern perimeter area of Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Tangerang, Banten, is officially prohibited.

Despite this, the area remains a popular destination for people who want to relax while watching planes take off and land at the airport.

One vendor, Kiki (27), admitted that he was aware that the location was not an official area for selling or gathering.

“It’s actually not allowed; this is their land. That’s why we comply when they ask us to leave. What else can we do?” said Kiki when interviewed by Kompas.com at the location on Saturday (16/5/2026).

“So, if that happens, we’ll move back behind the fence. That’s still allowed,” he added.

However, Kiki mentioned that some vendors return to their original spots after the patrols are over.

“Yes, there are always some who do, because people who come here want to hang out here,” he said.

A similar sentiment was expressed by Amin (35), a resident who came with his family. He admitted that he had been asked to move when he was in the area.

“Earlier, we were asked to leave, so we moved over here,” he said.

“I don’t know why; maybe it’s because they think it’s dangerous, but oh well,” he added.

Kompas.com observed that aviation security officers patrolled along the northern perimeter of Soekarno-Hatta Airport to disperse residents and vendors who were on the roadside.

The officers checked each spot used as a gathering place.

Several vendors using carts or motorcycles immediately moved their goods. Meanwhile, vendors using tables or stands were helped by residents and officers to move their items to the area behind the fence.

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