The Sky Battle: Kites vs. Planes in Jakarta's Urban Landscape

As kite enthusiasts persist in flying kites near Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, concerns over safety hazards from kites interfering with air traffic grow. Despite warnings and previous accidents, children like seven-year-old Atif and 17-year-old Rasha continue to embrace this cherished Indonesian tradition, highlighting the tension between cultural practices and regulatory measures.

In a vibrant paddy field just two kilometers from Jakarta's bustling Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, the sight of colorful kites dancing in the sky battles against the booming presence of airplanes soaring overhead. Here, a group of children, led by seven-year-old Atif, enjoy the thrill of flying kites, all while being vigilant for airport officials who might seize their toys and scold them for violating regulations. "If my kite is taken, it's sad, but I can always make another one," Atif shares, showcasing the resilience of youthful spirits.

Kite flying is a beloved activity in Indonesia, especially during the summer holidays, yet this joyful pastime has come under scrutiny as authorities warn of the potential dangers posed by kites that may disrupt aircraft operations. In early July, a distressing incident occurred when kites disrupted 21 flights over three days at the airport, with some flights being diverted or aborted due to safety fears.

Putu Eka Cahyadi, the head of the airport authority, emphasized the need for safety, labeling kites as "moving obstacles" that could result in devastating accidents. These concerns aren't baseless; a helicopter entangled in kite strings crashed in Bali in 2024, and a plane at Soekarno-Hatta nearly encountered disaster after landing with remnants of a kite struck in its engine.

Despite ongoing efforts to combat the issue, including a crackdown initiated five years ago, kite flying remains prevalent in the area. Local officials have attempted to redirect children's interests, suggesting alternative sports, yet kite flying is deeply embedded in Indonesian culture—serving various purposes from celebrating rice harvests to religious offerings.

Safety warnings extend beyond airports; kites pose risks in urban environments as well. A tragic incident involving a child in Depok city highlighted the potential dangers of kites distracting innocent bystanders. The legal consequences for those caught flying kites near airports can be severe, with potential prison terms and hefty fines looming.

The paddy field has become a sanctuary for kite enthusiasts, as nearby urban development has eliminated other viable spaces for flying kites. Rasha, a 17-year-old and kite maker, acknowledges the challenges of finding safer venues: "There's nowhere else around here," he laments. With green spaces in Jakarta dwindling by 31% between 2000 and 2020, children and adults alike are left with limited options to engage in their cherished hobby. Despite past confrontations with officials, Rasha remains undeterred, relishing in the thrill of kite flying while navigating the tug of war between joy and regulations.