aviation

South Sumatra Governor Calls Lion Air Boss, Opens International Flights

South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru conducted a surprise inspection at Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin (SMB) II Airport in Palembang, Wednesday (30/4/2025), to check the readiness of facilities and services after the airport's status was reactivated to international. 

During his visit, Herman Deru reviewed various service points. Not only that, he also directly contacted Rusdi Kirana, founder of Lion Air Group, to discuss opportunities for international flight routes. 

"We want to ensure that all aspects are ready, starting from the Airstrip (Lanud), Angkasa Pura operations, staff, Customs, to online immigration services. Airlines are also a top priority, and I have communicated directly with Mr. Rusdi Kirana," said Herman Deru. 

Herman Deru said that Lion Air Group welcomed this step. The airline is ready to open flight routes from Palembang to Malaysia and Singapore, two countries with high levels of travel demand. 

“Lion Air is very enthusiastic and ready to serve the Palembang-Malaysia and Palembang-Singapore routes. In addition, this route will open wider connectivity to countries such as Thailand. SMB II Airport will be a strategic international gateway,” he added. 

He emphasized the importance of separating services between domestic and international flights. He requested that the x-ray security screening system be reactivated after previously not being used for a year due to the revocation of the airport's international status. 

“We must prepare this carefully. I have also instructed to immediately submit an official letter to the Minister of Transportation, the Director General of Air Transportation, and the relevant airline authorities. Not only that, we will also seek approval from the Malaysian and Singaporean governments through the Ministry of Transportation,” he explained. 

Tag: Governor Herman Deru International Flights Lion Air