Soekarno-Hatta International Airport Gets Innovative in the New Normal

TANGERANG, KOMPAS.com – Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is turning to innovation as it seeks to operate in the new normal brought on by the deadly coronavirus pandemic.

President Director of PT Angkasa Pura II Muhammad Awaluddin has moved ahead with plans to sell masks and personal protective equipment (PPE). PT Angkasa Pura II operates and manages Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

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Awaluddin said that Angkasa Pura II is interested in starting a vending machine business catering to the demand for masks, face shields, antiseptic, gloves, and antiseptic mouthwash.

The idea is to make it convenient for Soekarno-Hatta International Airport’s visitors to buy safety equipment.

Angkasa Pura II is also keen on expanding the use of e-commerce through the airport’s digital map.

“As many as 21 digital wayfinding (digital map) will have enhanced features from showing the different areas of the terminal to eventually being upgraded to purchase PPE and medication,” said Awaluddin.

Angkasa Pura II has worked with the Indonesian Ministry of Health to open a Health Center that will conduct rapid tests and medical check-ups.

The Health Center is an extra measure to reduce the spread of the Covid-19 virus among airplane passengers.

According to Awaluddin, the three plans should be realized relatively soon at the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

Other airports under Angkasa Pura II will follow suit.

Reopening of stores and shops

After having to temporarily close due to the coronavirus pandemic, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport’s stores and restaurants have now reopened.

As part of the transition within Indonesia’s new normal plans, tenants of the country’s main airport are required to comply with strict health protocols.

Also read: Airlines and Hotels in Indonesia Need 2 Years to Recover Post Pandemic