Forest Fires Trigger Over 1,600 Flight Delays and Cancellations Across Indonesia
From August 11 to October 9, forest fires forced the cancellation, delay or rerouting of 1,673 domestic flights in Indonesia, with Kalimantan hardest hit.
The Transportation Ministry said forest-related smoke reduced visibility below safety standards, leading to 1,673 domestic flight disruptions between August 11 and October 9. Of these, 745 flights were delayed, 907 were cancelled or postponed, 15 were diverted and six returned to base. Ten carriers felt the impact, with Citilink Indonesia suffering the greatest loss at 478 flights, followed by NAM Air, Wings Air and others.
Airports across Kalimantan, Sumatra and Papua were most affected, forcing airlines to adjust schedules extensively. The haze has crossed borders, prompting Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to contact President Prabowo Subianto and pledge cooperation. Presidential Staff chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo said the government has mobilised military, police and local forces to combat the fires and mitigate further disruption.
Why it matters
Air travel disruptions affect millions of passengers and highlight the trans-national health and economic risks of Indonesia's forest fires.
How this story developed
- Sep 28 Civil groups sue Indonesian government over West Kalimantan fire negligence
- Oct 1 President Prabowo Subianto has named Arrmanatha Nasir, known as Tata, to replace Sugiono as foreign minister amid a broader cabinet reshuffle.
- Oct 4 Arrmanatha Nasir was sworn in as foreign minister.
- Oct 10 The class‑action suit moved to a hearing in Pontianak, where no defendants were present.
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