If you’ve had a flight canceled because of haze from forest and land fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia’s Consumer Protection Foundation (YLKI) says you’re entitled to a full refund, no deductions, no cancellation fees.
Several airports across Kalimantan have been affected by smoke haze caused by ongoing forest and land fires (known locally as karhutla). The fires have reached a scale significant enough to reduce visibility, forcing airlines to delay or cancel flights for safety reasons.
Airlines Can Cancel, But Passengers Shouldn’t Foot the Bill
YLKI acknowledges that canceling flights due to haze disruption is a reasonable safety measure for airlines to take. But the organization is clear on one point: passengers shouldn’t be the ones absorbing the financial loss from a situation entirely outside their control.
Beyond offering a full refund, YLKI says airlines also need to provide a clear rescheduling option for passengers who still want to continue their trip. Both options, refund and reschedule, should come with transparent terms and a straightforward procedure, so travelers aren’t left guessing.
Airlines Need to Communicate Faster and More Clearly
YLKI is urging airlines to notify all affected passengers promptly whenever a flight is impacted by the haze. Fast, clear, and transparent communication is seen as essential so travelers can make informed decisions without incurring further losses.
“YLKI is asking airlines to provide fast, transparent, and easy-to-understand information, especially regarding the reasons for cancellation and the refund or rescheduling process. Consumers should not be left facing unnecessary obstacles or uncertainty,” said YLKI Executive Secretary Rio Priambodo in a written statement on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
More Than Just an Environmental Issue
According to YLKI, the forest fire haze isn’t purely an environmental concern, it has direct consequences for the public, including significant disruption to air travel. That disruption can lead to additional losses for travelers, from missed schedules to extra unplanned travel costs.
In light of this, YLKI is calling on the government and aviation regulators to establish a clear, standardized consumer protection mechanism specifically for flight cancellations caused by haze from forest and land fires.
“Flight safety is the top priority. But when a flight is canceled through no fault of the passenger, the passenger shouldn’t be the one bearing the loss. Full refunds must be provided easily, clearly, and without penalty,” Priambodo said.
What This Means If Your Flight Gets Canceled
If your flight to or from Kalimantan gets disrupted by haze in the coming weeks, know your rights: you’re entitled to a full refund without deduction, or the option to reschedule under clearly stated terms. If an airline makes the process unclear or difficult, it’s worth pushing back and referencing YLKI’s guidance directly.
