Kuabang Airport (KAZ)

Kuabang Airport (KAZ), also known as Kao Airport, is a domestic aviation facility located in Jati Village, North Halmahera, Indonesia. Serving as a strategic gateway to the North Halmahera Regency on the island of Halmahera, the airport underwent a major transformation with the inauguration of a new, modern passenger terminal in March 2021. This facility was designed to significantly enhance regional connectivity and support the local economy, particularly the mining and tourism sectors in North Maluku. The airport serves as a critical alternative to Sultan Babullah Airport in Ternate, especially when volcanic activity affects flight operations there. The new terminal covers approximately 3,500 square meters and is built to accommodate up to 160,000 passengers annually. Its design focuses on modern aesthetics and passenger comfort, featuring a spacious check-in hall, a well-organized security screening area, and air-conditioned departure lounges. The airport's infrastructure includes a 1,950-meter runway capable of handling narrow-body aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and ATR 72, along with an apron that can park several aircraft simultaneously. This modernization has positioned KAZ as a key infrastructure asset for the region. Amenities within the terminal provide essential services for domestic travelers. These include clean restroom facilities, dedicated prayer rooms (Musholla), and a first-aid medical room. For refreshments, several small cafeterias and snack stalls offer local Indonesian dishes and beverages. There are also small retail outlets where travelers can find travel essentials and local souvenirs from North Maluku. The terminal layout is straightforward, ensuring that passengers can easily move from the arrival baggage claim area to ground transportation at the front of the building. Ground transportation at Kuabang Airport is primarily serviced by taxis and private car rentals. Since the airport is located about 75 kilometers from Tobelo, the regency's capital, travelers should expect a drive of approximately two hours. While there is no large-scale public bus system directly serving the terminal, private transfers are common and often pre-arranged by local hotels or the nearby Gosowong Gold Mine. For those arriving without prior arrangements, official airport taxis are available, though it is often recommended to book transport in advance during peak periods or for long-distance travel across Halmahera.