PANGANDARAN AIRSHOW 2025 - Growing the Love for Aviation in Indonesia

PANGANDARAN, 23 APRIL 2025 – Pangandaran Airshow 2025 concluded in triumph after three spectacular days of awe-inspiring aerial showcases, cultural performances, and environmental initiatives. Held from Friday, April 18 to Sunday, April 20, this year’s event also marked the 20th anniversary of Susi Air. The festival took place at the Susi International Beach Strip on the west coast of Pangandaran, drawing participation from over 60 aircraft representing flight schools, aviation clubs, and institutions—featuring paramotors, light planes, and helicopters.

The first day welcomed the arrival of aircraft participants and kicked off with a large-scale mangrove planting initiative. As part of its long-term environmental commitment, Pandu Laut Nusantara has successfully planted over 10,000 coastal trees within the past year. More than 400 volunteers joined forces with Pandu Laut Nusantara to plant trees along the coastline adjacent to the event grounds. The initiative reflected a commitment to environmental protection, reducing carbon emissions, and combating coastal erosion—underscoring the link between aviation enthusiasm and environmental stewardship.

On the second day, a historic milestone was achieved with the official inauguration of Susi Flying School by Ibu Susi Pudjiastuti, after the institution received its aviation school license from the Ministry of Transportation. Following rigorous compliance with national aviation standards, Susi Flying School is now poised to begin educating and training the next generation of Indonesian pilots.

The skies of Pangandaran came alive with a breathtaking aerobatic display by Air Marshal (Ret.) Eris Herryanto, S.I.P., M.A., flying the Aviat S-2C Pitts Special. His white smoke trails painted mesmerizing patterns in the sky, captivating the entire audience. Complementing the aerial feats, dozens of aircraft performed thrilling low passes, flying impressively close to the spectators.

That same day, Susi Air gave dozens of children a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take their first flight. Aboard the Cessna C208B Grand Caravan, they experienced the beauty of Pangandaran from above—an unforgettable gift that inspired joy and wonder.

Adding a unique cultural dimension to the event, Pangandaran Airshow 2025 celebrated West Java’s rich heritage with a captivating performance from traditional music group Dangiang Sarimbit of Mangunjaya, who accompanied dancers from Sanggar Kencana Wungu. These performers brought the runway to life with the vibrant Sundanese Jaipong dance, set dramatically against a backdrop of aircraft. The harmonious blend of music, dance, and aviation delighted guests and spotlighted Pangandaran’s cultural richness.

At the Gala Dinner on April 19, another significant moment took place as Pandu Laut Nusantara—founded by Ibu Susi Pudjiastuti—received five electric boat engines from Gempacs, handed over ceremonially by Gempacs CEO Corrado Accardi. These engines will be distributed to traditional fishermen in Pangandaran through the Blue Tech Indonesia program, supported by P4G and the World Resources Institute. Each fisherman will receive a complete package: an electric engine, a fiber-reinforced fishing boat, fishnets, and a solar-powered charging station. The initiative goes beyond hardware distribution—offering training in sustainable engine use, education on climate resilience, and financial literacy support to empower long-term capacity building.

Throughout the three-day event, a vibrant local MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) festival sponsored by Bank Indonesia’s Tasikmalaya branch provided visitors with opportunities to explore Pangandaran’s unique crafts and culinary delights, supporting regional entrepreneurs and enriching the visitor experience.

Pangandaran Airshow 2025 showcased the dynamic and diverse world of Indonesian aviation, while elevating cultural pride and environmental responsibility. The event’s overwhelming public enthusiasm confirmed its place as a premier annual festival—one that will continue to uplift Pangandaran and share the wonders of aviation with communities across Indonesia.