Ministry of Transport Ensures International Flight Operations Continue
Jakarta — The Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Indonesia has confirmed that international flight operations remain operational amid the fluid situation in the Middle East region.
In response to reports circulating amongst the public regarding the suspension of all international flights due to impacts from the Middle East situation, the Ministry of Transport through the Directorate General of Air Transport stated that such reports are inaccurate, said Lukman F. Laisa, Director General of Air Transport at the Ministry of Transport, in a statement in Jakarta on Tuesday.
He stated that the ministry continues to intensively monitor developments in international flight operations affected by the Middle East situation and ensures passenger handling proceeds smoothly, safely, and in a coordinated manner.
Lukman noted that as of 17 March 2026 at 10:30 WIB, 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 airspace of the United Arab Emirates beginning to reopen, Lukman said, several airlines have resumed limited flight operations. Emirates has commenced limited flights to and from Jakarta and Denpasar. However, operations were temporarily disrupted by a fuel farm facility issue at Dubai Airport on 16 March 2026, causing flight delays and schedule adjustments.
“Handling of affected passengers continues, including the gradual transportation of stranded passengers,” explained Lukman.
He further stated that Etihad Airways has also resumed limited flight operations and plans to increase flight frequencies as a contingency measure, particularly for routes from Jakarta and Denpasar to Abu Dhabi.
Meanwhile, Qatar Airways has conducted repatriation flights since 8 March 2026 and is gradually reopening limited flight services from Jakarta. Handling of affected passengers, including Umrah pilgrims, has been carried out through refund mechanisms, schedule changes, and alternative carrier arrangements. As of 16 March 2026, there are no remaining stranded passengers at Jeddah being handled by Qatar Airways.
On the other hand, several airlines serving direct flights to Saudi Arabia including Saudi Arabian Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Flyadeal continue to operate normally and remain unaffected by the conflict.
Additionally, indirect flights through third countries operated by various international carriers have resumed normal operations and are ready to accommodate passenger travel needs.
The Directorate General of Air Transport will continue coordinating with all stakeholders, including civil aviation authorities, airport operators, and airlines, to ensure smooth flight operations and provide optimal protection and service to all passengers.
“The public is urged to continually monitor official information from airlines and relevant authorities and adjust travel plans in accordance with current developments,” said Lukman.