Jakarta. Batik Air has temporarily suspended the pilot and co-pilot of flight BTK 6723, an Airbus A320 en route from Kendari to Jakarta, after they allegedly fell asleep during the flight on Jan. 25.

"On Jan. 26, Batik Air implemented precautionary measures by placing the pilot and co-pilot assigned to flight ID-6723 on temporary suspension," stated Batik Air's spokesperson, Danang Mandala Prihantoro, in a press release issued on Saturday.

The revelation of the pilot and co-pilot allegedly sleeping for approximately 28 minutes during the flight was first disclosed by the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) on Feb. 27. According to the KNKT report, one of the pilots did not get sufficient rest the night before the flight due to attending to his twin babies on the day before the incident. Despite resulting in a series of navigation errors, the incident did not cause harm to the 153 passengers and four flight attendants during the two-and-a-half-hour flight.

In response to the investigation results and recommendations from KNKT, Batik Air expressed its commitment to implementing all safety recommendations. 

"As part of these efforts, Batik Air is strengthening coaching programs and enhancing operational flight safety procedures for all flight crew members," Danang said.

To ensure safety aspects and service quality, Batik Air conducts routine evaluations of all flight operations, focusing on operational details and safety aspects to ensure that every procedure and work practice aligns with safety standards.

Batik Air emphasized that it has implemented adequate rest policies for flight crew members, including pilots and co-pilots, before they commence their duties. This is particularly crucial in maintaining the highest standards of flight safety.

Flight analyst Gerry Soejatman disagreed with the notion that the solution to this issue is as simple as imposing sanctions on pilots and airline management. He stressed that systemic risks need to be addressed and that a blanket sanction approach may hinder the necessary qualitative analysis and solutions needed for Pilot Fatigue, which requires awareness and recognition of fatigue issues.

"If fatigue is caused by intentional actions or negligence due to irresponsible behavior by the pilot, then disciplinary sanctions are appropriate," added Soejatman. He also suggested that companies should consider implementing paternal leave for pilots whose wives have recently given birth to reduce the risks associated with pilot fatigue.

Batik Air is a subsidiary of Lion Air, Indonesia's biggest budget airline.

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