Morning flights proposed as temporary solution in Singkawang amid haze

The Singkawang City Government is working to adjust flight schedules to the morning hours as a temporary solution to ensure that Singkawang Airport operations can resume amidst disruptions caused by haze from forest and land fires (karhutla).

Speaking in Singkawang on Sunday, the Mayor of Singkawang, Tjhai Chui Mie, stated that this option has been discussed with the Commander of Supadio Air Force Base Pontianak, Air Force Air Marshal Sidik Setiyono, alongside the BMKG Singkawang Station, AirNav Indonesia Pontianak Branch, and airline representatives.

According to the Mayor, morning flights are being considered because visibility tends to be better during those hours, which can support flight safety aspects.

He noted that the operational disruptions at Singkawang Airport over the past month have impacted the economic activities of the community. This impact is felt not only in the transport sector but also in tourism, hospitality, and the culinary and restaurant industries, which rely on the mobility of people from outside the region.

Tjhai Chui Mie added that the Singkawang City Government has previously coordinated with BMKG, AirNav Indonesia, and airlines to discuss the morning flight scheme as a short-term solution while awaiting the installation of the Instrument Landing System (ILS).

“We will remain committed and provide full support so that Singkawang Airport can return to normal operations as soon as possible,” she said.

The Singkawang City Government also expressed appreciation for the support from the Supadio Air Force Base, AirNav Indonesia, BMKG, and airlines in seeking solutions to restore air connectivity to and from Singkawang.

With these operational adjustments, the Mayor stated that the local government hopes flights at Singkawang Airport can resume, allowing community connectivity and regional economic activities to gradually recover.