โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
150
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport (BPN) is the premier aviation gateway to East Kalimantan, Indonesia, and is strategically positioned as a primary entry point for the countryโs new capital city, Nusantara (IKN). Located just 4.5 kilometers east of downtown Balikpapan, the airport has undergone massive development to support the regionโs rapid industrial and administrative growth. It is consistently recognized by Airports Council International as one of the best-performing facilities in its class for service quality and passenger experience in the Asia-Pacific region.
The airport operates through a single, massive integrated terminal building that opened in 2014, spanning over 110,000 square meters. Designed with an "eco-airport" philosophy, the multi-level facility incorporates sustainable features such as a water recycling plant and energy-efficient lighting and climate control systems. The layout is highly intuitive, featuring a spacious departures hall on the upper floor with 74 check-in counters and numerous self-service kiosks, while the lower levels manage a high-capacity arrivals flow supported by eight modern baggage carousels.
Inside the terminal, passengers have access to a wealth of modern amenities and premium services. The facility is home to several high-end lounges, including the Garuda Indonesia Lounge, the Blue Sky Premier Lounge, and the Concordia Lounge, which provide quiet environments, business services, and local Balikpapan cuisine. The terminal also features extensive retail zones with international duty-free shops, a variety of restaurants and cafes, and dedicated prayer rooms (Musholla) located throughout the boarding areas. For families and business travelers, the airport provides free high-speed Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations, and a multi-story parking garage for over 2,300 vehicles.
Ground transportation at BPN is exceptionally well-organized, with official Blue Bird taxis operating from a dedicated stand using a reliable metering system. Travelers can also utilize various ride-sharing apps or pre-arranged hotel shuttles for direct transfers to Balikpapan or the IKN construction sites. The airport is currently being linked to the new capital via a state-of-the-art toll road, which will significantly reduce travel times for government officials and business travelers. Additionally, the airfield functions as an Indonesian Air Force base and supports specialized logistical operations for the regional oil and gas industries, making it one of the most operationally diverse airports in Indonesia.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting at Balikpapan's Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan Airport (BPN) is an exceptionally efficient experience, as the facility serves as the primary aviation gateway to East Kalimantan and Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara (IKN). The airport operates from a single, modern terminal where the arrivals hall is on the ground floor and departures are on the first floor. For domestic-to-domestic transfersโsuch as arriving from Jakarta (CGK) and connecting to a regional flightโfollow the 'Transit' signs to stay airside and move directly to your next gate. If your flights are on separate tickets, you must collect your luggage and re-check it at the main island counters; allow at least 90 minutes for this process.
A standout feature for travelers is the Blue Sky Premier Lounge, located airside in front of Gate 10. Beyond its high-quality local buffet and premium coffee, the lounge offers a complimentary buggy/golf cart service that will drive you directly to your boarding gateโa significant benefit in the massive terminal. For those heading to the new capital city, Nusantara (IKN), the journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic. Cititrans operates a reliable executive shuttle every 30 minutes, while DAMRI provides a more budget-friendly hourly service from the terminal forecourt.
Ground transportation is well-organized with a dedicated 'Grab Lounge' and pickup point located just outside the arrivals exit, offering a transparent and air-conditioned waiting area for ride-hailing services. If you prefer a traditional taxi, visit the fixed-price coupon booth in the arrivals hall. It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight, as the airportโs strategic importance means security screenings can be rigorous. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, and the terminal's 'eco-airport' design features numerous tranquil spots with natural light to relax during your layover.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
150
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Apalapsili Airport (AAS) is a very small, remote airfield located in the mountainous region of Highland Papua, Indonesia. Primarily serving missionary flights, humanitarian aid, and occasional private charters, it acts as a critical lifeline connecting isolated communities with larger towns. The airport's terminal facilities are extremely rudimentary, often consisting of no more than a simple, open-air waiting area or a basic, unstaffed building. The layout is minimalist, with direct access from a small landing strip to the boarding area, which is usually a designated spot on the tarmac.
Security procedures at AAS are minimal, consistent with its classification as a small, remote regional airfield. Formal security checkpoints with advanced screening equipment are not present. Instead, security is typically a matter of visual checks, adherence to light aviation safety protocols, and direct coordination with pilots or humanitarian organizations. There are no significant wait times for any checks. As a domestic airfield, and often a frontier one, there are no immigration or customs facilities on site; these functions would be handled at larger, designated international entry points for any incoming international travelers or cargo.
Amenities at Apalapsili Airport are exceptionally sparse. Passengers should not expect any airline lounges, dedicated dining facilities, or retail shops. Any available provisions would be extremely basic, possibly from a very small local vendor in a nearby village, and travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and personal items. Seating in the waiting area is sparse and functional, often outdoors. Accessibility features are rudimentary, primarily consisting of ground-level access only. Travelers requiring assistance must coordinate thoroughly in advance with their charter operator or local community contacts.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting at Apalapsili Airport requires careful planning due to its remote location in the Papua highlands. All flights are typically domestic and operate using small aircraft suitable for unimproved airstrips. The main connection points for commercial or larger regional flights would be through airports like Sentani (DJJ) in Jayapura or Wamena (WMX). Travelers arriving from international destinations would need to clear customs and immigration at a major Indonesian international airport, such as Jakarta (CGK) or Bali (DPS), before connecting to a flight that eventually reaches Papua.\n\nDue to the challenging terrain and often unpredictable weather conditions in the mountains, flight schedules can be highly variable. It is crucial to coordinate directly with your charter operator or local missionary aviation service for up-to-date information on flight timings and potential delays. There are no inter-airline baggage transfer services; all luggage must be collected and re-checked manually. Be prepared for flights to be delayed or cancelled due to fog, heavy rain, or operational issues with the small aircraft.\n\nGround transportation from Apalapsili Airport to surrounding communities is extremely limited and often involves rugged terrain. All onward travel must be pre-arranged with local contacts or mission organizations. There are no taxis, rental cars, or public transport options at the airstrip. It is vital to have a reliable local guide or contact to facilitate any onward journey, as well as to assist with communication in this isolated region.
โ Back to Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport