The Indonesian government has launched an investigation into Batik Air following an alarming incident where two pilots were found asleep mid-flight while operating a plane with 153 passengers from Sulawesi to Jakarta. The occurrence, which took place on January 25, has raised significant concerns about flight safety and pilot fatigue.

During the flight, a 32-year-old pilot reportedly instructed his 28-year-old co-pilot to assume control as he was fatigued from attending to his newborn twins. However, both pilots fell asleep during the flight, leading to a brief deviation from the intended course. Despite the unsettling circumstances, the aircraft managed to land safely upon arrival in Jakarta.

Subsequent medical tests conducted on both pilots deemed them physically fit to fly, but the quality of their rest prior to the flight remains uncertain. The incident has sparked a thorough investigation by Indonesian authorities to determine the factors contributing to pilot fatigue and ensure the safety of future flights operated by Batik Air.

The investigation underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols and measures to mitigate the risks associated with pilot fatigue, highlighting the critical role of regulatory oversight in maintaining aviation safety standards.