As global tourism slowly rebounds and international business ties regain momentum, Indonesia is eyeing stronger connections with Russia. One of the most tangible steps on the table? Launching direct flight Moscow-Jakarta. The goal is clear: make it easier for people to travel, for businesses to collaborate, and for both economies to grow.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stressed the importance of these direct connections, especially between Moscow and top Indonesian destinations.
“We’re promoting people-to-people connections. For example, direct flight from Moscow-Jakarta or to Bali and other destinations. One goal is to support the Chamber of Commerce and its partners. We’ll be discussing the direct Moscow–Jakarta route in more detail,” he said during the Russia-Indonesia Business Forum hosted by the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) in Jakarta on Monday, April 14, 2025.
This forum, originally launched in 2018, had been on pause during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the Indonesian government is eager to bring it back to life.
Airlangga outlined several focus areas for investment over the next five years, aligning with President-elect Prabowo Subianto’s national strategies.
“Over the next five years, investments will focus on several sectors in line with President-elect Prabowo’s programs, especially food self-sufficiency, energy independence, renewable energy, downstream industries, and expanding export markets amid global uncertainty,” he stated.
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He also addressed potential collaboration in Danantara, a strategic development project, noting significant Russian interest.
“Investments could include strategic involvement in Danantara, and Russia is very interested in aluminum and energy investments,” Airlangga explained.
On the trade front, efforts are underway to finalize the Indonesia–Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (IEAEU-FTA).
“The FTA with Eurasia is almost done—perhaps in the final round—similar to the one with the EU. The President has instructed that all topics be concluded in the first semester, followed by more detailed legal scrubbing,” said Airlangga.
He revealed that he had already discussed these matters with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. Deeper, technical talks between both nations are in the pipeline.
“I will ask PM Manturov to consider Jakarta because our aim is to open up business between the two countries,” he said.
“So one way to bridge this is with Jakarta–Moscow flights,” he continued.
Asked when these routes might be realized, Airlangga didn’t give a specific date but emphasized urgency, pointing to an upcoming Indonesian government visit to Moscow scheduled for June.
Beyond facilitating trade and diplomacy, the direct flights are also expected to boost Russian tourism to Indonesia. Bali remains a major draw, but Airlangga reminded the public that Indonesia’s appeal stretches far beyond the island.
“Indonesia has five other major tourist destinations that could be developed through air connectivity,” he added.
With diplomatic backing and business support, Indonesia is clearly setting the stage for stronger ties with Russia—starting with the skies.
