Finland to deliver advanced weather and aviation safety systems to Indonesia
Finland is set to enhance aviation safety in Indonesia through a major project aimed at strengthening the country’s meteorological services. The initiative, led by Finnish companies and institutions, will provide advanced weather and aviation safety systems to improve flight reliability in one of the world’s largest archipelagic nations.
The project, valued at approximately EUR 24.6 million, will be implemented by Vaisala Plc in collaboration with the Finnish Meteorological Institute. Vaisala, whose main production site is in Vantaa, will supply weather observation equipment, radars, and volcanic ash monitoring systems. Finland is contributing EUR 14.4 million in funding, drawn from development cooperation appropriations, which includes a grant from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and coverage of loan interest costs. Indonesia will finance the remaining portion of the project.
Ministry for Foreign Affairs reports that the initiative will focus on East Indonesia, where extreme weather and volcanic ash present significant challenges to aviation. The region’s reliance on air travel makes improved weather forecasting critical for safety, trade, and tourism. The project will equip 14 airports and the headquarters of Indonesia’s Agency for Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics (BMKG) in Jakarta with modern monitoring systems, alongside training for local personnel.
Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio highlighted the dual benefits of the project, stating that it supports Indonesia’s development while advancing Finnish economic interests. “For Indonesia, a country with thousands of islands and varying weather conditions, aviation safety is crucial. Finnish technology and expertise will help reduce weather-related risks. At the same time, we are boosting Finland's exports,” he said.
The funding is provided through Finland’s Public Sector Investment Facility (PIF), which supports projects that promote economic and social development in partner countries while ensuring a significant Finnish contribution. The initiative is expected to improve flight reliability, thereby fostering trade, tourism, and local livelihoods.
