The Effect of Air Traffic Density During Eid Homecoming Flow on Flight Safety at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport Makassar

Abstract

The Eid homecoming period in Indonesia significantly increases public mobility, including the use of air transportation. This condition causes a rise in aircraft movements, passenger numbers, and operational activities at airports. Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport Makassar, as one of the main aviation hubs in Eastern Indonesia, experiences substantial air traffic density during the Eid homecoming season. This study aims to analyze the effect of air traffic density during the Eid homecoming flow on flight safety at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport Makassar. The research used a qualitative descriptive approach. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving Air Traffic Controller (ATC) officers, airport operational personnel, Apron Movement Control officers, airline representatives, and aviation safety personnel. The results showed that increased air traffic density affects operational complexity, increases ATC workload, causes aircraft queues on runways and taxiways, and raises the potential risk of operational delays, miscommunication, loss of separation, and human error. However, the implementation of Air Traffic Management (ATM), Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM), strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and effective coordination among stakeholders can maintain flight safety during peak traffic periods.

Keywords            : air traffic density, Eid homecoming, flight safety, Air Traffic Control, airport operations.