Airports in Indonesia are not just places for arrivals and departures; they are also the first gateway that welcomes travelers. From major cities to remote destinations, each airport plays an important role in connecting thousands of islands across the archipelago. Today, many airports have become more modern, offering increasingly complete and comfortable facilities.
Interestingly, several airports in Indonesia feature designs inspired by local culture and the surrounding natural beauty. Some face the sea, others are surrounded by mountains, and many showcase distinctive regional architecture. Before you travel, let’s take a look at some of the airports in Indonesia worth knowing about.
1. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Tangerang
As the busiest airport in Indonesia, Soekarno-Hatta continues to compete globally. Its Terminal 3 is often compared to Incheon Airport due to its modern architecture and world-class scale.
The terminal is adorned with sculptures by Nyoman Nuarta and ethnic carvings in the check-in area. Current facilities include the Skytrain (Kalayang) connecting terminals, luxury capsule hotels, and high-end shopping areas.
The airport remains fully operational as Indonesia’s main gateway, featuring an automated baggage handling system. To reach it, you can take the Railink Airport Train from central Jakarta, Damri buses, conventional taxis, or ride-hailing services.
Taking the train is highly recommended to avoid traffic congestion on the Sedyatmo toll road. Ensure you check your departure terminal (Terminal 1, 2, or 3) beforehand, as the distance between them is significant. Always arrive at least 3 hours before your flight.
2. Juanda International Airport, Surabaya
Juanda remains one of the most punctual airports in Indonesia, exuding a sense of luxury and elegance. A main attraction in Terminal 1 is the dancing fountain that moves to the rhythm of music and colorful lights.
The airport is actively operating with complete facilities, including exclusive shopping areas, local and international restaurants, and premium lounges. The staff are well-known for their friendly and helpful service to travelers.
You can access the airport via Damri buses from the Bungurasih Terminal, metered taxis, or ride-hailing apps. While there is no airport train yet, toll road access makes the journey from central Surabaya City relatively smooth.
Remember that Juanda has two terminals: T1 for domestic flights and T2 for international flights, which are located quite far apart. Double-check your ticket to ensure you head to the correct terminal.
3. Blimbingsari International Airport, Banyuwangi
This airport is a popular icon known for being the first "green building" airport in Indonesia, designed by architect Andra Matin. It uses recycled ship ironwood and prioritizes natural airflow over heavy air conditioning.
Facilities have been upgraded to serve both international and domestic flights within an aesthetically pleasing terminal. From above, the roof is designed to resemble the udeng (traditional headgear) of the local Osing tribe.
Transportation to the airport is available via airport taxis, ride-hailing services, and tourist shuttle buses. It is located about 15–20 minutes from downtown Banyuwangi, offering scenic views of rice fields along the way.
Visitors are expected to maintain the cleanliness of this lush area. Because of its open-air concept and heavy use of wooden materials, smoking is strictly prohibited everywhere except in designated zones to preserve the green architecture.
4. I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Denpasar
Ngurah Rai remains the second busiest airport in Indonesia and consistently wins international awards. The authentic Balinese atmosphere is immediately felt through the iconic Pura (temple) structures at the international gates.
Modern facilities include super-fast Wi-Fi, extensive commercial areas, and beautiful tropical gardens. The airport operates 24 hours a day, serving millions of tourists visiting the Island of the Gods.
Access is available via the Trans Metro Dewata bus, official airport taxis, or ride-hailing apps. Its location is highly strategic, situated only 10–15 minutes away from popular tourist hubs like Kuta and Jimbaran.
Due to extremely high passenger volume, immigration and security queues can be time-consuming. It is highly recommended to use the self-check-in kiosks to speed up your departure process.
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5. Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport, Balikpapan
Sepinggan stands as one of the most beautiful airports with an eco-airport concept that brings nature indoors. In the lobby, you can see live plants and birds flying freely under a magnificent, high-tech roof.
Facilities include multi-layered security systems, a shopping area integrated like a mall, and spacious, modern lounges. It is often cited as having the best interior design among large Indonesian airports.
Reaching the airport is easy using metered taxis, public buses, or ride-hailing services. It is located right on the main road connecting Balikpapan City to other major cities in East Kalimantan.
Since the airport is integrated with a shopping mall, be careful not to get distracted by shopping and miss your flight. Always monitor the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) screens located throughout the mall area.
6. Kualanamu International Airport, Medan
Kualanamu remains the most sophisticated airport in Sumatra and was the pioneer of integrated airport trains in Indonesia. Its Baggage Handling System ensures your luggage moves automatically without the need for porters.
Top-tier facilities include a grand train station, giant flight information screens, and interactive e-kiosk services. The airport boasts a massive check-in area, meaning long queues are a rare occurrence.
The best transportation option is the Railink Airport Train, which connects the airport directly to Medan City Center (Medan Station) in a short time. Damri buses and taxis are also available as more economical options.
Pay close attention to the train schedule so you don't get left behind, as it runs at specific intervals. Kualanamu also has a vast commercial area, so ensure you head to your boarding gate well in advance.
7. Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, Makassar
This airport is famous for its unique design resembling a Pinisi ship, the traditional vessel of the Bugis-Makassar people. The high ceilings feature "Mandar" fabric motifs, complemented by soaring giant windows.
Facilities include very large waiting rooms, a culinary area featuring Makassar specialties, and souvenir shopping centers. It consistently ranks as one of the best airports for service quality in the Asia-Pacific region.
Transportation access includes Damri buses to the city center, official taxis, and ride-hailing services. It is directly connected to the toll road, providing easy access to the seaport or Makassar’s business district.
The airport is currently undergoing expansion and renovation. Make sure to follow the directional signage carefully, as passenger flow may change periodically due to ongoing construction in certain areas.
8. Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto International Airport, Samarinda
APT Pranoto Airport replaced the old Temindung Airport with a more futuristic and photogenic design. Since opening in 2018, it has become a new point of pride for the people of Samarinda.
Facilities are continuously being updated, including the addition of direct flight routes to various major cities in Indonesia. The modern interior design makes it a very comfortable place for passengers to wait for their flights.
You can reach the airport using airport taxis or ride-hailing services. Although the access road can occasionally be congested, the availability of land transportation is sufficient for most travelers.
This airport is much further from Samarinda city center than the old one, so ensure you leave early. Also, monitor weather conditions as the surrounding area is sometimes prone to morning fog.
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9. Kalimarau Airport, Berau
Kalimarau Airport remains one of the cleanest and most orderly airports in Indonesia. The atmosphere inside is very calm, with traditional Dayak instrumental music accompanying passengers as they wait.
Facilities are highly disability-friendly, featuring specialized elevators, comfortable lounges with navy blue sofas, and a kids' play area in Terminal B. High-speed Wi-Fi and charging stations are also readily available.
Transportation to and from the airport usually involves airport taxis or car rentals, which are plentiful for tourists. While there is no mass public transit like buses, hotel shuttle services are frequently provided.
This airport is the main gateway to the Derawan Islands. Ensure you have arranged your pickup or further transportation to the harbor before landing to ensure your holiday journey goes smoothly.
10. Jenderal Ahmad Yani International Airport, Semarang
This airport has transformed into Indonesia's first "floating airport," built over a wetland area. This eco-airport concept is surrounded by water ponds and mangroves, creating a refreshing atmosphere near Semarang City.
The facilities are now much more modern, featuring 30 check-in counters, 3 jet bridges, and a parking capacity for 1,200 vehicles. The new terminal can accommodate nearly 7 million passengers annually.
To reach it, you can use the Trans Semarang bus, which has a dedicated stop at the airport, metered taxis, or ride-hailing apps. Access is now much wider and generally free from Semarang’s notorious traffic jams.
Given its location in a wetland area, the airport prioritizes environmental cleanliness. Visitors are expected to help preserve the mangrove ecosystem by not littering around the airport grounds.
11. Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport, Sumbawa
This airport has undergone massive renovations to support tourism in Sumbawa, particularly for events like Sail Moyo Tambora. Its design is now modern and very comfortable for both domestic and international tourists.
Supporting facilities include wider waiting rooms, disability-friendly access, and a better-organized parking area. This airport is the primary alternative for tourists visiting Moyo Island who choose not to use a seaplane.
Transportation to the airport is available via local taxis, ojek (motorcycle taxis), and hotel shuttle services. Due to its efficient size, the process from the entrance to the boarding lounge is very quick.
Note that flight frequencies to Sumbawa are not as high as major airports. Be sure to confirm your flight schedule regularly, as schedules in smaller airports often adjust based on local weather conditions.
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Indonesia’s airports serve as the primary gateways to exploring a wide array of popular travel destinations that await your arrival. Before taking flight, ensure you have crafted an itinerary tailored to your schedule and travel style using the AI Plan Your Trip feature.
Should you require travel inspiration, destination recommendations, travel tips, or precise information about a specific region, be sure to utilize the advanced assistant MaiA, who is ready to accompany you on your adventures.