Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, is home to numerous airports that make traveling within the country and internationally accessible. Indonesia’s airports range from major international hubs connecting to global destinations to regional airports providing local access to smaller islands.
Major International Airports
- Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) – Jakarta
- Located near Jakarta, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is the busiest airport in Indonesia. It serves as the main gateway to the country and offers extensive international and domestic flights. Terminal 3 serves many international airlines, providing modern amenities and services for travelers.
- Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) – Bali
- Known as Bali International Airport, Ngurah Rai is located in Denpasar and is Indonesia’s second busiest airport. With a range of flights connecting Bali to Asia, Australia, and beyond, it’s a popular entry point for tourists. The airport is famous for its cultural touches, such as Balinese artwork and architecture, creating a memorable arrival experience.
- Juanda International Airport (SUB) – Surabaya
- Situated in Surabaya, East Java, Juanda International Airport serves as an important domestic and international hub, connecting Indonesia to Southeast Asia and other parts of Asia. The airport is equipped with modern facilities, with two terminals handling both domestic and international traffic.
- Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) – Medan
- Kualanamu Airport, located in North Sumatra near Medan, is a major airport in western Indonesia. It provides connections to Malaysia and Singapore and also serves as a gateway for travelers exploring Sumatra.
- Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG) – Makassar
- Located in Makassar, South Sulawesi, Sultan Hasanuddin Airport connects eastern Indonesia to other regions and international destinations like Malaysia. It’s a key airport for travel within Indonesia, with domestic connections to places like Bali, Jakarta, and Papua.
Regional Airports Serving Domestic and Limited International Flights
- Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Airport (BPN) – Balikpapan
- This airport in East Kalimantan serves Balikpapan and nearby areas, with domestic flights and limited international flights to Singapore and Malaysia.
- Adisutjipto International Airport (JOG) – Yogyakarta
- Located near Yogyakarta, Adisutjipto Airport connects travelers to the historic city and attractions like Borobudur. It mainly operates domestic flights, with some international connections to Singapore and Malaysia.
- Sam Ratulangi International Airport (MDC) – Manado
- Serving Manado in North Sulawesi, Sam Ratulangi Airport is known for flights to and from the Philippines and several domestic destinations. It’s a popular gateway for travelers exploring Sulawesi and Bunaken Marine Park.
- Minangkabau International Airport (PDG) – Padang
- This airport in West Sumatra provides domestic connections and limited international flights to Malaysia, making it accessible for travelers heading to attractions like the Mentawai Islands.
- Pattimura Airport (AMQ) – Ambon
- Pattimura Airport, located in Ambon, Maluku, serves the Maluku Islands and offers flights to several domestic cities. It’s a key airport for travelers exploring the Maluku archipelago.
Useful Tips for Travelers
- Connectivity: Indonesia’s airports are well-connected with major cities across Asia and Australia. For domestic travel, budget carriers operate between many smaller islands, making it easier to hop across the archipelago.
- Facilities: Major airports like Soekarno-Hatta and Ngurah Rai offer comprehensive amenities, including lounges, Wi-Fi, shopping, and dining options. Smaller airports may have more limited services.
- Transportation: Options for ground transportation vary by airport. Major airports often have taxis, shuttle buses, and ride-hailing services, while smaller airports may offer only taxis or local transport options.
