Mulia Airport (LII)

Mulia Airport (LII), identified by its ICAO code WABQ (formerly WAJM), is a domestic aviation facility serving the town of Mulia in the Puncak Jaya Regency of Central Papua, Indonesia. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,798 meters (5,898 feet) in a deep mountain valley, the airport features a single passenger terminal building covering about 625 square meters. This modern, compact structure is specifically designed to handle regional domestic traffic while providing a comfortable environment for travelers in the often-cold high-altitude climate of the Papua central highlands. The terminal building is characterized by its functional yet modern design, featuring large north-facing windows that provide a 180-degree view of the runway and the surrounding mountain ranges. Inside, passengers have access to a comfortable waiting lounge and essential check-in counters. A unique architectural feature of the facility is the use of dark granite flooring, intended to absorb solar heat during the day and release it at night to help regulate the building's temperature. Amenities are focused on basic passenger needs, including a small canteen (kantin) and clean restrooms, reflecting the airport's role as a vital regional outpost. Flight operations at Mulia are primarily conducted using STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft such as the DHC-6 Twin Otter and Cessna 208 Grand Caravan, which are well-suited for the airport's 797-meter runway. The facility acts as a critical link for the local community, connecting Mulia to regional hubs including Sentani (Jayapura), Wamena, and Nabire. Due to its challenging geographical location, flight schedules are highly dependent on weather conditions and visibility within the valley. Travelers are encouraged to confirm their flight status in advance, as cloud cover frequently leads to delays or rescheduling of the limited scheduled services.