The Federal Aviation Administration announced new, upgraded safety ratings for Indonesian airlines, confirming the country now complies with International Civil Aviation Organization safety standards. The FAA began monitoring Indonesia’s civil aviation in 1997, when the country was originally approved for flights to and from the United States. However, the rating was dropping in 2007 when it was noted the country either lacked laws necessary to ensure airlines complied with minimum international safety standards or Indonesia’s civil aviation authority was deficient. The new rating comes after a March investigation of Indonesia’s civil aviation authority, which concluded it complies with international standards. The FAA evaluates civil aviation authorities in all countries requesting permission to fly to the United States or participate in a codeshare agreement with a U.S. airline. Now, Indonesian carriers may request FAA and Department of Transportation authority to begin service to the United States.