Kalimantan flight disruptions decrease amid forest fire haze

Flight operations in Kalimantan are showing signs of recovery following disruptions caused by forest and land fires. According to the Airport Authority Region VII Balikpapan, the number of affected flights decreased by approximately 25.7 percent between September 21–27, 2026, compared to the previous week. During this period, 304 flights were impacted, including 63 delays, 240 cancellations or postponements, and one diversion.

While East and North Kalimantan saw significant improvements in air traffic stability, Central Kalimantan experienced an increase in disruptions. Central Kalimantan recorded 225 affected flights, accounting for roughly 74 percent of the total disruptions in the region. Low visibility remains a primary safety concern, with visibility levels dropping as low as 100 meters at Haji Muhammad Sidik Airport in Barito.