Another freighter operator, BBN Airlines, has launched its operations in Indonesia.

BBN Airlines Indonesia — a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group that specialises in the provision of Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance & Insurance (ACMI), air charter, and air freight services — announced that it gained its operating license on August 31.

BBN Airlines Indonesia is looking to operate two Boeing 737-800F aircraft dedicated to cargo services, and by the end of 2023, will boast a fleet of nine aircraft for ACMI, air cargo and aircraft charter services.

"We are thrilled to announce that BBN Airlines Indonesia has been granted its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Transportation Republic Indonesia, on August 31, 2023," BBN Airlines Indonesia said in a LinkedIn post, adding that the milestone certifies the freighter operator's readiness to commence commercial operations and signifies the company's commitment to supporting the growing aviation demand in Indonesia.

High market demand in Indonesia

"This AOC is a testament to our dedication to serve Indonesia's aviation needs, including airlines, tour operators, cargo, and logistics. We see high market demand, especially during peak seasons like Umrah, Hajj, Eid, and other special occasions, creating spikes in cargo distribution. This is our opportunity to support airlines, logistics companies, and tour operators with reliable, swift, secure, and comfortable services," said Martynas Grigas, chief strategy officer of BBN Airlines Indonesia.

BBN Airlines Indonesia said it is strategically at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Indonesia's main gateway.

The new freighter operator in Indonesia is looking to benefit from the lack of ACMI providers in the country, as well as the growing e-commerce volumes.

 [Source: BBN Airlines Indonesia]

"The need for reliable delivery, which covers a large area that spans from Sabang to Merauke, requires quick and safe cargo aircraft," BBN Airlines Indonesia said.

Grigas added: "ACMI providers are still a rarity, especially in Asia. We are offering wet lease as well as mixed-crews or damp lease that can be custom tailored to the client’s specific needs."

The BBN Airlines Indonesia chief strategy officer said while the lessee gets an additional aircraft or more, the lessor gives a full guarantee on the airworthiness of the aircraft, crew, maintenance, and aircraft insurance.

"On the other hand, the lessee will be responsible for the other operational aspects, such as fuel and ground handling services," he added.

BBN Airlines Indonesia is the second freighter operator to receive AOC in recent months following the announcement of Raindo United Services that it has been granted an operating license at the end of August.

The Indonesian freighter airline said on August 23 that it received its AOC and will launch its operations with two Boeing 737-800BCF aircraft — the first (PK-RUS) arrived in Indonesia on July 14, and the second aircraft (PK-RFS) of the same type was received on August 9, 2023.

It noted that Raindo is preparing its first flight with both domestic and international routes.