JAKARTA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Indonesian government has established five new international airports this year, bringing the total number nationwide to 22, a senior official said in a statement on Wednesday. The move aims to enhance accessibility across the archipelago.
Director General of Air Transportation at the Indonesian Transportation Ministry, Lukman F. Laisa, said the expansion is part of the government's strategy to strengthen inter-island and international connectivity, promote tourism, and accelerate regional economic activities.
"The addition of international airports is being carried out in a measured manner, taking into account infrastructure readiness, the potential for international air transportation, and integration with intermodal transportation systems," Lukman noted.
"We ensure that each establishment follows prudent principles and is based on accurate data," he emphasized.
The five new international airports are located in South Sumatra, the Bangka Belitung Islands, and Central Java in western Indonesia, as well as in South Kalimantan and West Kalimantan in central Indonesia. ■
