Lion Air Flight Route Jeddah-CGK

Lion Air aircraft/ Photo: Bitor Ekin Putra

JAKARTA - Lion Air aircraft with flight number JT087 on the Jeddah-Tangerang (CGK) route was reported to have suddenly been rescheduled. The plane was supposed to fly at 20.00 local time, but was postponed to Sunday, 03:30 local time.

The passenger complained about this delay because there was no clarity from the airline. The reason is, at the airport there were no Lion Air officers on guard for questioning.

Responding to this, the Corporate Communications Strategic of Lion Air, Danang Mandala Prihantoro said that JT-087 international flights had been well prepared.

However, said Danang, based on the inspection of the aircraft that will be operated by Airbus 330-900NEO registration PK-LEF before departure (pre-flight check), the aircraft must undergo a re-examination.

"Because there are indications that one of the components needs to be done by a technician and bring in a spare component," he told reporters, Sunday, February 19.

Meanwhile, continued Danang, spare parts are imported from other locations, so it takes substantial time for the delivery process and preparation of spare parts before they can be used for replacement.

Furthermore, Danang said Lion Air was trying its best to speed up the process of bringing in replacement planes and spare parts.

Lion Air has notified the delay in the departure of JT-087 and facilitated compensation (delay management) according to applicable regulations, namely food and drinks and accommodation on time. Handling to all pilgrims is carried out properly," he said.

Regarding passenger complaints, Danang apologized. He said, the safety, security and comfort of Umrah pilgrims is a top priority.

Lion Air would like to apologize sincerely to Umrah pilgrims affected by flight delays JT-087. Lion Air understands very well that this delay can affect the travel schedule and plans of the congregation," he said.