Dedi Mulyadi wants to hand BIJB Kertajati airport to the military; Prabowo gives green light

Bandung, Thekabarnews.com—West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has announced a new strategic opportunity for West Java International Airport (BIJB) Kertajati in Majalengka. This airport has had trouble reaching its full commercial potential since it opened.

Dedi Mulyadi said that the airport might be a potential base for the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU). This opportunity follows President Prabowo Subianto agreed to a request from the West Java Provincial Administration.

Dedi Mulyadi said that the concept is part of a bigger plan to make Kertajati a center for the indigenous defense sector. This would reduce its reliance solely on commercial aircraft.

“This is not just about flying. We see Kertajati as a strategic location for the growth of the national defense sector,” he stated.

Dedi Mulyadi also said that he had already talked to the central government, including the State Secretary (Mensesneg) and the Defense Minister (Menhan). At this stage, the regional administration is now waiting for the central government’s final decision.

Dedi Mulyadi also made it clear that there are no plans to sell shares of BIJB Kertajati Airport. Instead, the suggested method is an asset swap plan. The central government would get BIJB Kertajati Airport. Meanwhile, the West Java provincial administration would take care of Husein Sastranegara Airport, the area around PT Dirgantara Indonesia, and nearby strategic zones.

The governor thinks that BIJB Kertajati Airport has a better chance of growing quickly. This is because it already has excellent infrastructure and an obvious market need.

BIJB Kertajati Airport already has a ready ecology. “It has the right facilities and a clear market, so development can move faster,” he remarked.

The proposed change has the potential to significantly transform BIJB Kertajati Airport, which has struggled to attract regular commercial flights. Acceptance of the plan could transform the airport’s status from a failing passenger hub to a crucial component of the country’s defense.

The central government’s final decision will likely determine whether Kertajati will be a military aircraft base and defense industry zone. Meanwhile, BIJB Kertajati Airport could become West Java’s main commercial aviation gateway. What do you think?