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SOEKARNO-Hatta Airport (Soetta) is undergoing a major change in its terminal operations. One major change is the transfer of all low-cost carrier (LCC) flights to Terminal 1, which were previously operated from Terminal 2.
This move is part of the government’s efforts to improve passenger efficiency and comfort at Soetta Airport.
The Minister of Public Enterprises, Erick Thohir, explained that the relocation of the LCC flights is aimed at separating low-cost flights from full-service flights.
“In this way, low-cost airports will have different terminals in the future,” said Erick during a visit to Soetta Airport, Wednesday (01/01), 2025.
For example, a number of LCC airlines that currently operate at Terminal 2, such as AirAsia Indonesia, AirAsia and Lion Air, will move completely to Terminal 1.
President Director of PT Angkasa Pura Indosia or InJourney Airports Faik Fahmi further explained the reasons for moving LCC flights to Terminal 1 of Soetta Airport. What are they?
Efficiency of terminal arrangement
This terminal reorganization is also related to optimizing the function of each terminal at Soetta Airport.
According to Faik Fahmi, LCC airlines operating in Terminal 2 will be moved to Terminal 1. Meanwhile, full-service airlines such as Batik Air, which previously operated in Terminal 2, will be moved to Terminal 3.
“Full service will be in Terminal 3, while Terminal 2F will be specifically for Umrah, and low-cost carriers will be in Terminal 1,” Faik explained.
He added, regarding the arrangement plan that will last until 2027. This is expected to contribute to a clearer separation between low-cost flights and full-service flights, in order to improve the comfort and order of operations in each terminal.
Revitalization of Terminal 1
To support this transformation, Terminal 1 is undergoing a revitalization process that has reached 30 percent progress.
Faik said that this revitalization will not only focus on increasing the capacity and functionality of the terminal, but also on beautification to provide a more comfortable and modern atmosphere for passengers.
“I am aiming to complete the revitalization of Terminal 1 by August 2025,” Faik said.
He added that with this arrangement, it is hoped that Terminal 1 will become a more efficient and friendly terminal for low-cost airline passengers.
Focus on Umrah Flights in Terminal 2F
In addition to the relocation of LCC airlines, Terminal 2F will also be transformed into a dedicated terminal for Umrah pilgrim flights. This relocation will begin at the end of January 2025 and will be completed in stages.
A number of airlines operating direct flights to Jeddah, such as Saudi Airlines and Garuda Indonesia, will move from Terminal 3 to Terminal 2F, while airlines operating indirect flights will operate from the terminal before being taken by bus to Terminal 3.
“This arrangement is also to make it easier for Umrah pilgrims who had to wait at Terminal 3, now they will be in the more special Terminal 2F,” said Faik, explaining the benefits of this arrangement for Umrah pilgrims.
Faik added that all these changes are also aimed at optimizing terminal capacity and supporting the growth of the aviation industry in Indonesia.
He hopes that this redesign demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving the infrastructure and services at Soetta Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in the world, to meet the ever-growing demand. [kompas.com/photo special]
