February 14, 2026 | 09:33 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Up to 1.7 million passengers are expected to pass through Indonesia's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport during the 2026 Chinese New Year holiday period, airport authorities said, projecting a rise in both passenger traffic and aircraft movements.
PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia (InJourney Airports), which operates the country’s main gateway, estimates total passenger numbers will reach 1,744,820 during the holiday window, marking a roughly 4 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
“The projected number of passengers is expected to reach 1,744,820, an increase of around 4 percent,” said Heru Karyadi, General Manager of Soekarno-Hatta’s main branch office, on Friday, February 13, 2026.
The holiday period coincides with a joint leave day on February 16 and a national holiday on February 17, 2026. The surge in travel is also expected to overlap with the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijri, which, according to Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs calendar, is projected to begin on February 19, 2026.
“Cumulatively, traffic at Soekarno-Hatta during that period is projected to increase compared to the same period in 2025,” Heru said, noting that the proximity to Ramadan could further boost mobility.
Aircraft and Cargo Movements
Aircraft movements are projected to reach 11,330 flights during the period, representing an estimated 3 percent increase year-on-year. The peak is expected on Saturday, February 14, with around 1,111 flights and 171,094 passengers.
Meanwhile, a spike in return travel is anticipated on Tuesday, February 17, as holidaymakers head back.
Cargo activity is also forecast to rise. Airport authorities estimate total cargo movement will reach 15.63 million kilograms, up approximately 2 percent from the previous year. The increase reflects heightened goods distribution alongside passenger travel during the extended holiday.
Operational Preparations
To manage the anticipated surge, airport management has strengthened operational oversight, optimized staffing and facilities, and enhanced coordination across units.
“We ensure that all aspects of service, security, and safety run optimally to keep passengers’ journeys smooth, safe, and comfortable,” Heru said.
He added that operational capacity will be maintained through real-time traffic monitoring and integrated control systems to safeguard service reliability during the busy period.
Festive Activities
In addition to operational measures, the airport will host a lion dance parade in the terminal area as part of its Chinese New Year celebrations.
“This activation is part of our effort to create a warmer and more memorable travel experience for passengers amid the traffic increase,” Heru said.
Read: Chinese Travelers Flock to Russia, Thailand for Lunar New Year 2026
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