Indonesia Prepares for Passenger and Cargo Drones with New Aviation Rules

Jakarta: Indonesia’s Transport Ministry is preparing regulations for drone use in transportation, including cargo and passenger services, as technology advances, a ministry official said on Monday.

Director General of Civil Aviation Lukman F. Laisa said the government must ensure drone operations are properly regulated to meet safety and operational requirements.

“Drones are no longer just for recreational use. They are now being used for cargo and even passengers. We need to align this by creating new regulations,” Laisa told a press conference in Jakarta.

Indonesia already has several regulations governing drone use, including provisions covering pilots, aircraft registration, navigation, and organizations, he said.
 
The government has also guided two domestic companies in developing drone technology, Laisa said. The ministry is overseeing two foreign companies seeking to operate drones in Indonesia.

Indonesia could share its experience in drone technology development with other countries, particularly those starting to adopt the technology, he said.

The issue is also part of the agenda Indonesia could bring to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) if elected to the ICAO Council.

Aviation regulations must continue adapting to technological developments and international standards set by ICAO, Laisa said.

“An update to our regulations must follow every change in an Annex issued by ICAO,” he said.

Drone regulations would need to cover various aspects, from human resources and infrastructure to airports used if the technology becomes part of the transportation system, he said.
 
Indonesia is seeking a seat on the ICAO Council after last serving on the body in 2001.

The election of four additional ICAO Council members will take place during the 43rd Extraordinary Session of the ICAO Assembly on Nov. 19-20, 2026, in Montreal, Canada.