Jakarta. Singapore-based Indonesia Airlines has yet to secure the regulatory permits required to operate flights, delaying its planned soft launch this month, the Transportation Ministry said on Thursday.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation stated that Indonesia Airlines, owned by Singapore-based Calypte Holding, has not completed the verification of its standard certificates within the Online Single Submission (OSS) and the Integrated Aviation Licensing System (SIPTAU). Without verification, the certificates are not legally valid and cannot serve as a basis for flight operations.

“Unverified status means the process is incomplete. Without the necessary documents, no permit will be issued, and flight operations are not allowed,” Director General of Civil Aviation Lukman F Laisa said in a statement.

A key requirement that remains outstanding is the submission of a detailed business plan outlining the airline’s fleet acquisition strategy, operational areas, organizational structure, financial capacity, and service plans for the next five years. Without this, the ministry cannot proceed with verifying the airline’s documents, blocking the issuance of an operational permit.

“There is no shortcut in establishing an airline. It’s not just about administration but also operational compliance and safety,” Lukman said, emphasizing the need for transparency to the public.

Indonesia Airlines, which plans to operate only international routes and skip the domestic market, initially aimed to commence flights in November 2024, but delays in aircraft cabin fit-outs have already pushed back its timeline.

CEO Iskandar Ismail earlier said that Calypte Holding signed a €46.2 million acquisition deal with a German firm in March to secure a majority stake in Indonesia Airlines, backed by a €12.8 billion funding commitment. The airline has also attracted investment interest from Australia, China, and Thailand.

The airline plans to operate 20 modern aircraft, including 10 Airbus A321neo or A321LR for medium-haul flights and 10 Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 787-9 jets for long-haul services, aiming to challenge established regional players with its international-only model.

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