Kotabaru, South Kalimantan (ANTARA) - The District Governemnt of Kotabaru, South Kalimantan, has attended a ccordination meeting with the Ministry of Transportation's Directorate General of Air Transportation regarding the acceleration development of Gusti Sjamsir Alam Airport in Stagen, Kotabaru.
Kotabaru Regent H Muhammad Rusli expounded that related to the progress of the airport development, the government has completed the acquisition for approximately 78.56 hectares land in accordance with the requirements in the Airport Development Master Plan.
“The airport is not just an infrastructure, but a bridge of hope of the people of Kotabaru. With the central government's support, we are confident the development acceleration will have a significant impact on regional progress. This is a joint work for a better future,” said the Regent as reported on Friday.
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The Regent also highlited the importance of developing aviation, considering the high ticket price with aircrafts dominated by ATR.
He hopes for direct flights to major cities in Indonesia using jet-specific planes.
Besides land acquition, the government of Kotabaru also prepares alternative roads to replace national road affecteted by the aiport extension.
If possible, an underpass will be built to support the smooth traffic flow and future airport operations.
Kotabaru Regent was with Governor of South Kalimantan H Muhidin attending the meeting. He fully supported the development of air transportation infrastructure in South Kalimantan, including Kotabaru.
The Ministry of Transportation expressed it commitment to fully support the development of Gusti Sjamsir Alam Airport to be able to accomodate jet aircraft, such as Airbus 320.
The existing 1,850 meters runway is actually possible to accomodate such aircraft, but it still need strengthening the runway structure and option of extending it to 2,300–2,600 meters.
The Ministry also plans to help realize direct flights from Kotabaru by facilitating cooperation with airlines to increase connectivity and lower airfare for the local people.
This collaborative effort between the Kotabaru government and the Ministry is expected to accelerate the realization to improving flights facilities and services to support people mobility, regional economic growth, and sustainable regional competitiveness.
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