๐ต๐ญ Mapun, Philippines
Cagayan de Sulu Airport (CDY), also identified by its ICAO code RPMU, is a small community general aviation airport located on Mapun Island in the Tawi-Tawi Province of the Philippines. Serving as a crucial link for this remote island municipality, the airport supports essential non-commercial air operations, facilitating local transport, and providing vital access for emergency services and supplies. It plays an indispensable role in connecting Mapun Island to the wider Philippine archipelago, given its isolated geographical position. Terminal facilities at Cagayan de Sulu Airport are extremely minimal, reflecting its function as a basic airstrip rather than a commercial passenger hub. There is no dedicated terminal building with modern amenities such as air conditioning, restrooms, or extensive retail outlets. Travelers should anticipate a very rudimentary setup, likely consisting of a simple open-air waiting area. Due to the absence of commercial flights, passengers must be prepared for self-reliance and should bring any necessary provisions, as on-site services are virtually non-existent. Operational aspects of CDY include a single macadam runway, designated 13/31, measuring 1,300 meters long and 30 meters wide, situated at an elevation of approximately 100 feet above mean sea level. The airport primarily handles general aviation and military use, operating without scheduled commercial services. Operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), it is essential for pilots and passengers to coordinate all logistics in advance. Ground transportation on Mapun Island would typically be arranged through local contacts or private vehicles, as public transport options are extremely limited.
Cagayan de Sulu Airport (CDY), also known by its ICAO code RPMU, is a community-class airport located on the remote Mapun Island in the Tawi-Tawi province of the Philippines. Because there are currently no scheduled commercial airline services operating directly into Mapun, 'connections' at CDY typically involve transitioning between private charter flights, military operations, or local sea transport. The airportโs 1,300-meter macadam runway is the primary air link for this isolated island municipality, but logistics here require significant advance planning. For most travelers, the journey to Mapun involves a major transfer in Zamboanga City. Zamboanga International Airport (ZAM) serves as the main gateway to the Tawi-Tawi region, with regular commercial flights from Manila and Cebu operated by Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. From Zamboanga, the most common way to reach Mapun is via a long-distance ferry, such as those operated by Aleson Shipping Lines. This sea journey can take between 18 to 24 hours, and departures are often synchronized with the arrival of commercial flights at ZAM. If you are fortunate enough to arrive at CDY via a private charter flight, your 'connection' to the islandโs interior will be highly informal. There is no centralized passenger terminal or on-demand public transport at the airstrip. You must pre-arrange any local ground or boat transport through contacts on the island or your sponsoring government agency. For those planning to return to Zamboanga or Bongao, it is essential to monitor weather conditions and coordinate closely with your pilot, as the remote nature of the Sulu Sea can lead to sudden changes in flight visibility. Always carry sufficient water and provisions, as the airport lacks basic retail or dining facilities.
Check terminal and airline baggage transfer rules, especially on separate tickets.
Minimum domestic connection:
45 minutes
International connections:
90 minutes
Interline transfers:
60 minutes
See current Google Maps reviews, ratings, photos, and traveler experiences for Cagayan de Sulu Airport (CDY).
Compare CDY/RPMU with another airport: Comparison Tool
Surallah, Philippines
Baguio City, Philippines
Bacolod, Philippines
Bislig, Philippines
Baler, Philippines
Last updated: January 1980 | Data Source: IATA and other airline sites and resources