Bappenas Please PT DI Expand Connectivity Of The N219 Aircraft

Minister of National Development Planning/Head of the National Development Planning Agency (PPN/Bappenas) Rachmat Pambudy. (Photo: ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Minister of National Development Planning/Head of the National Development Planning Agency (PPN/Bappenas) Rachmat Pambudy expects PT Dirgantara Indonesia (DI) to expand connectivity between big and small cities through the development of N219 aircraft, especially in areas with challenging geographical conditions.

"Through the development of the N219 aircraft, we hope that PT DI can expand connectivity between big and small cities, especially in areas with challenging geographical conditions," he said as quoted by ANTARA, Friday, November 15.

During a working visit to PT DI, his party reviewed production technology, works, and the potential development of the aerospace and national defense industry, one of which was the N219 aircraft.

The N219 aircraft is designed to meet operational needs in areas with special characteristics, such as high elevations, short runways, and difficult weather conditions.

"This aircraft will be an important solution for areas that have been difficult to reach so far, so that it can encourage regional economic development," said Rachmat.

The Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas is said to have acted as the initiator of the acceleration and enabler program in the development of the aerospace ecosystem, as well as the preparation of development plans.

Meanwhile, PT DI acts as the developer of N219 and N219A aircraft, armed with certification for overall aircraft production.

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) supports the research and development of N219 aircraft, he continued, while the Ministry of Defense strengthens aspects of security and operations, as well as facilitates the budget.

Future development targets include completion of the prototype and certification of the Basic Amphibian Aircraft (N219 BAA) in September 2026, with the acquisition of the Airworthiness Type Certificate (ATC) for the N219 BAA, as well as the full development and certification of the N219 Amphibi in September 2027.

"The increase in the carrying capacity of domestic component production (spareparts) as well as the development of N219 aircraft is expected to increase the contribution of the aerospace industry to Indonesia's economic growth. The defense industry, including the aerospace, has a strategic role as a driver of economic growth as well as supporting national resilience," said the Minister of VAT.

Through this effort, the Indonesian aerospace industry is expected to grow into an independent, competitive, and sustainable sector, as well as support national resilience and independence.

"With the support and cooperation of various ministries and institutions, we hope that the national defense industry can grow healthier, more advanced, and independent. This industry has great potential to encourage national independence as well as support economic growth," said the Head of Bappenas.