TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo immediately ordered Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi and State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Minister Erick Thohir to address airfare issues after receiving complaints about pricey airline tickets.

"I have also received complaints. I have thus ordered the Minister of Transportation to resolve this immediately," said the President at Jakarta State Palace, Thursday, August 18, 2022.

Jokowi said that he often heard these complaints from the public. He demanded Budi Karya take action regarding the price of airline tickets which may contribute to July's inflation.

Speaking to Erick Thohir, the President expected Garuda Indonesia as a state-owned airline to expand its fleet. Operating more fleets will help airlines stabilize airfare prices. During the lingering COVID-19 pandemic, the number of fleets belonging to Garuda and other airlines decreased drastically.

However, Jokowi acknowledged that operating more fleets would not be easy due to the high prices of global aviation fuel.

Last Tuesday, Erick also revealed a number of steps for airlines such as Garuda Indonesia to stabilize air ticket prices. He also emphasized the role of state-owned airlines to be a driver that provides cheap airline tickets for the people.

BISNIS.COM

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