Alor Island - Mali Airport (ARD)

Mali Airport (ARD), also known as Alor Island Airport, serves the Alor Archipelago in the East Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia. Located approximately 10 kilometers from the main town of Kalabahi, the airport acts as the primary entry point for tourists visiting the region's renowned diving sites and traditional villages. The terminal is a small, single-story structure with a design that incorporates local architectural elements. It is equipped to handle turboprop aircraft, such as the ATR 72, which are the standard workhorses for island-hopping routes in this area. The layout is straightforward, featuring a compact check-in hall and a separate waiting room.

Security procedures are standard for Indonesian regional airports. Passengers and their luggage are screened upon entering the terminal building and again before entering the sterile departure area. The process is generally quick due to the limited number of daily flights (typically operated by carriers like Wings Air and Citilink). Boarding is conducted via a walk across the tarmac, offering passengers scenic views of the surrounding hills and the sea, which are characteristic of the airport's coastal location.

Amenities at Mali Airport are basic. There are no luxury lounges or extensive duty-free shops. Instead, travelers will find small kiosks or a canteen selling local snacks, instant noodles, coffee, and cold drinks. The waiting area is functional, often cooled by fans rather than full air conditioning. Ground transportation to Kalabahi and local resorts is available via taxi or motorcycle taxi (ojek), and some hotels provide shuttle services for their guests.