Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has unveiled plans to develop Kertajati Airport in West Java into a designated aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) area. The initial phase of development at Kertajati Airport is focused on establishing a facility for rotary wing helicopters, with plans for expansion to accommodate other aircraft in the future. The plan was initiated following the signing of a cooperation agreement with the Ministry of National Development Planning/National Development Planning Agency of the Republic of Indonesia, PT Bandarudara Internasional Jawa Barat (Perseroda), and PT Garuda Maintenance Facility Aero Asia Tbk (GMF).
Alongside this initiative, the Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development has expressed its intention to develop several areas in West Java, including Rebana and Patimban, with a view to transforming them into aerospace hubs. The objective of these plans is to revitalise the airport for the benefit of arriving and departing passengers, as well as regional development. The aerospace industry is poised to make a significant economic impact, contributing approximately 4.6% to the national gross domestic product (GDP), while fostering sustainable economic growth and enhancing the welfare of the surrounding community. These benefits are expected to be realised by creating employment opportunities and mobilising Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (UMKM).
