Press Logistics Delivery Fees, Government Explores Use Of Flying Whales Cargo Aircraft

JAKARTA - Presidential Chief of Staff (KSP) Moeldoko, said that transportation of goods from one region to another is still a challenge for Indonesia. So that infrastructure development in the transportation sector is needed for logistical efficiency.

In addition to strengthening connectivity, he said, the government continues to think of new ways to facilitate logistics distribution throughout Indonesia to remote areas, outermost, underdeveloped, and border areas.

"We are exploring the use of cargo aerial ships to facilitate logistics distribution, assistance for disaster victims, or the construction of electricity and communication networks," said Moeldoko after chairing a coordination meeting on Optimizing Air Transportation for logistical efficiency with ministries/agencies, at the Bina Graha building. Jakarta, Monday 4 September.

At the coordination meeting, the Presidential Staff Office together with ministries/agencies also received an audience from a French company, Flying Whales. The company developed a balloon-like cargo plane called the LCA60T.

This cargo plane has a Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VOTL) flight system. So it doesn't require additional infrastructure to operate.

From the video presented, this LCA60T cargo plane has a similar appearance to traditional balloons, and is capable of carrying loads of up to 60 tons. This aircraft is claimed to have an environmentally friendly concept by relying on helium power, and hybrid-electric propulsion for flying.

"This can be one of the logistic efficiency solutions. And we are currently working hard to reduce logistics costs," said Moeldoko.

Although it is considered effective and efficient in logistics distribution, continued the 2013-2015 TNI Commander, the use of cargo aircraft such as the Flying Whales has not been implemented. Because the regulations governing it do not yet exist. "This is a combination of Airplane Mode with hot air balloons. We don't have any regulations yet," he explained.

"From the perspective of its use, the ministry/institution welcomed it for logistical efficiency," concluded Moeldoko.