Launch of the Inaugural Aviation Club by IAA

On August 21, 2026, the Indonesia Aviation Association (IAA) officially launched its inaugural Aviation Club in Jakarta. The initiative was established as a recurring executive discussion forum designed to bring together aviation professionals, industry stakeholders, and experts to foster strategic dialogue and collaborative solutions for Indonesia's growing aviation sector.

8/21/20263 min read

PRESS RELEASE

Indonesia Aviation Association Launches Inaugural Aviation Club to Strengthen Strategic Dialogue Across Indonesia’s Aviation Ecosystem

JAKARTA, Indonesia — The Indonesia Aviation Association (IAA) marked a significant milestone on 21 August 2026 with the successful launch of its inaugural Aviation Club, a new strategic forum designed to bring together aviation professionals, industry stakeholders and experts to discuss key issues shaping the future of Indonesia’s aviation sector.

Attended by IAA members and affiliated industry partners, the inaugural gathering officially launched what will become a recurring discussion platform dedicated to exchanging ideas, sharing expertise and developing collaborative solutions for Indonesia’s aviation ecosystem.

A Strategic Forum for Indonesia’s Aviation Industry

Representing IAA Chairman Mr. Faik Fahmi, Vice Chairman Mr. Pikri Ilham explained that Aviation Club was established to create a broader and more inclusive conversation around aviation beyond operational issues alone.

“Aviation Club was established as a strategic forum to discuss the aviation industry from a broader perspective. We hope this platform will help both aviation and non-aviation professionals gain a deeper understanding of the aviation sector, including its business dynamics, investment opportunities and associated risks,” said Mr. Pikri.

He emphasised that Aviation Club reflects IAA’s commitment to building a collaborative aviation community capable of contributing ideas and recommendations for the sustainable development of Indonesia’s aviation industry.

Building an Integrated National Aviation Ecosystem

During the session, Mr. Pikri outlined IAA’s near-term priorities in advancing the Association’s vision of creating an integrated national aviation ecosystem.

IAA believes that stronger collaboration is essential across every segment of the aviation industry, including airlines, airport operators, regulators, education institutions, maintenance providers, investors and supporting industries.

Indonesia possesses one of the world’s largest aviation markets, supported by its archipelagic geography, growing population and expanding economy. To fully realise this potential, the industry must address several structural challenges, including:

Fleet availability and capacity optimisation in the post-pandemic recovery period.
Limited connectivity between regions across the Indonesian archipelago.
Infrastructure capacity and development gaps.
Investment risks and financing challenges within the aviation sector.
Aviation safety enhancement across the ecosystem.
Domestic Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capacity limitations.

“Aviation cannot be viewed from a single perspective. It functions as an interconnected ecosystem where airports depend on airlines, airlines depend on connectivity and infrastructure, while tourism, trade, cargo, supply chains and many other sectors rely on a strong and efficient aviation network,” Mr. Pikri added.

IAA Strategic Programmes

The inaugural Aviation Club also introduced IAA’s strategic programmes for the coming years, reinforcing the Association’s role as a knowledge hub and industry partner.

Key initiatives include:

Establishing the IAA Center of Excellence for Aviation in collaboration with Dhoho Airport, Kediri.
Developing a partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as a Regional Training Partner.
Launching in-house professional development programmes led by IAA members and industry experts.
Continuing Aviation Club as a recurring executive discussion forum for strategic aviation issues.
Organising aviation safety forums, including the upcoming Ramp Safety 360 panel discussion.
Producing expert recommendations and policy inputs for aviation regulators and industry practitioners.

· Increasing IAA’s participation in regional and international aviation conferences and exhibitions.

These initiatives aim to strengthen industry competency, encourage knowledge sharing and support the long-term competitiveness of Indonesia’s aviation sector.

Topic in Focus: The Phenomenon and Public Perception of High Domestic Airfares

A highlight of the inaugural Aviation Club was a featured discussion titled “The Phenomenon and Public Perception of High Domestic Airfares.”

The session was presented by Mr. Alvin Lie, Head of the Association for Air Transport Service Users (APJAPI) and an IAA member.

The discussion examined the widespread public perception that domestic airfares in Indonesia are “too high” and explored the structural, operational and economic factors influencing airfare pricing.

Mr. Alvin explained that Indonesia’s regulated domestic fare framework — including the upper and lower fare boundaries (TBA and TBB) — can limit airlines’ flexibility in adjusting fares in response to changing operating costs and seasonal demand patterns. The session also explored how rising fuel prices, airport charges, taxation, geopolitical developments and public narratives contribute to the perception of airfare affordability.

Participants also discussed findings indicating a potential mismatch between broader public perception and the views of actual domestic air travellers, highlighting the importance of understanding airfare issues through a comprehensive industry perspective.

A separate publication containing the full discussion and key findings from this session will be released by IAA.

Looking Ahead

Through Aviation Club, IAA aims to become Indonesia’s leading collaborative platform for strategic dialogue, connecting the experience, expertise and perspectives of aviation professionals, institutions and industry stakeholders.

By fostering constructive discussions and evidence-based recommendations, IAA seeks to contribute to the development of an aviation ecosystem that is safe, competitive, sustainable and globally connected, supporting Indonesia’s long-term economic growth and national connectivity.

For more information, please contact:

Indonesia Aviation Association (IAA)

Tel: +62 811 1200 077 | +62 21 3825 0524

Email: indonesiaaviation.assc@gmail.com

About Indonesia Aviation Association (IAA)

Indonesia Aviation Association (IAA) is a national association that brings together aviation experts, professionals, institutions, and industry stakeholders. IAA serves as a strategic partner and source of insight for both the aviation industry and government in strengthening Indonesia’s aviation ecosystem.