Iskandar: The Aceh Entrepreneur Elevating Indonesia's Aviation Industry

The Indonesian aviation landscape is on the cusp of a significant transformation, spearheaded by Iskandar, an entrepreneur hailing from Bireuen, Aceh. As the founder and CEO of Indonesia Airlines, Iskandar is set to introduce a new era in air travel, combining luxury with efficiency to meet the evolving demands of modern travelers.

Early Life and Entrepreneurial Journey

Born in Bireuen, Aceh, Iskandar's journey from his hometown to the helm of an international airline is a testament to his vision and determination. His entrepreneurial ventures span various sectors, including renewable energy and agriculture, under the umbrella of Calypte Holding Pte. Ltd., a Singapore-based conglomerate. This diverse portfolio showcases his ability to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities, laying a solid foundation for his latest venture into aviation.

Establishing Indonesia Airlines

In 2025, Iskandar announced the launch of Indonesia Airlines, aiming to redefine air travel for Indonesian passengers. The airline's primary hub is planned to be Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, positioning it strategically to serve both domestic and international markets.

Fleet and Operational Strategy

Indonesia Airlines plans to operate a fleet of 20 aircraft in its initial phase, comprising:

• Narrow-Body Aircraft: 10 units, potentially Airbus A321neo or A321LR models, suitable for short to medium-haul flights.
• Wide-Body Aircraft: 10 units, including Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 787-9 variants, designed for long-haul international routes.

This diverse fleet composition reflects Iskandar's strategy to offer comprehensive coverage, catering to various market segments and route structures.

Focus on International Connectivity

A distinguishing feature of Indonesia Airlines is its emphasis on international flights. The airline aims to serve 48 destinations across 30 countries within the first five years of operations. This ambitious expansion plan underscores Iskandar's commitment to enhancing Indonesia's global aviation footprint and providing passengers with a premium travel experience that goes beyond mere transportation.

Leadership and Expertise

To ensure operational excellence, Iskandar has assembled a leadership team with extensive experience in the global aviation industry. Key appointments include:

• Operations Director: A former Singapore Airlines pilot with over 40 years of experience, including operating the Airbus A380.
• Commercial Director: A professional with more than 21 years of experience at major airlines such as Emirates and Asiana Airlines.
• Head of Flight Operations: An Indonesian pilot currently serving in a foreign airline.
• Product and Service Director: An expert from Brunei Darussalam with 25 years of experience at Royal Brunei and Emirates.
• Cabin Service Manager: A former British Airways Cabin Crew Manager and member of the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) Committee, with prior experience at Emirates.

This diverse and seasoned team is poised to drive Indonesia Airlines toward achieving its vision of becoming a global symbol of Indonesian hospitality and prosperity.

Regulatory Landscape and Challenges

Despite the comprehensive planning, Indonesia Airlines faces regulatory hurdles before commencing operations. As of March 2025, the Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has not received an application for an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from PT Indonesia Airlines Group (INA), the entity behind the airline. Obtaining the AOC is a critical step in launching commercial flight services, and the delay raises questions about the airline's readiness and timeline.

Iskandar's Vision for Indonesia Airlines

Iskandar envisions Indonesia Airlines as more than just a carrier; he aims to redefine the air travel experience by integrating the luxury of private jet travel with the accessibility of commercial aviation. This approach is designed to meet the expectations of travelers seeking more than just transportation, offering a seamless and enhanced journey that reflects Indonesian culture and hospitality.

Conclusion

Iskandar's emergence as a key player in Indonesia's aviation sector highlights the potential of visionary entrepreneurship to drive industry transformation. By leveraging his diverse business background and assembling a team of seasoned professionals, Iskandar is positioning Indonesia Airlines to make a significant impact on the global aviation stage. As the airline navigates regulatory processes and prepares for launch, stakeholders and passengers alike anticipate a new era in Indonesian air travel, characterized by luxury, efficiency, and a commitment to excellence.