Moh. Khory Alfarizi, Jakarta – Transportation Ministry through the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, held a forum group discussion with the theme of "Advancing Together to Improve Civil Aviation Safety in Papua" on September 11-12, 2023 in Timika, Papua.
The Civil Aviation DG Maria Kristi Endah Murni explained that the FGD is a platform to unite perceptions in order to improve aviation safety, security, service, and obedience. Thus, she believes collaboration is necessary.
"Synergy between Civil Aviation DG as the regulator and all stakeholders is critical to seek solution over the challenges faced in the field and to evaluate what needs to be done," Kristi wrote in a statement quoted on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.
Previously, a similar FGD was held last year, resulting in Circular Letter No. 7 of 2022 on Improvement of Aviation Safety. As a follow-up, and referring to data and reports of civil aviation in Papua, this year's FGD conducted a more detailed evaluation, especially in regard to operational challenges.
Papua terrain is dominated by mountains, which necessitated aviation as a transportation mode to reach every corner of the province. "Ensuring aviation safety is a fundamental focus," Kristi said.
Kristi also alluded to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) mandates in the Global Aviation Safety Plan which targeted zero aviation fatalities, thus asking all stakeholders to actively participate in the efforts to realize aviation safety. The measures include supervision as a preventive measure to achieve zero fatalities in national aviation services.
Meanwhile, the result of the present FGD will be drafted into a consensus concerning the measures that need to be taken as a mutual commitment between all related parties. "I hope [all parties] could commit, so aviation safety in Papua could be realized," she concluded.