Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport

Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport, the aerial gateway to the city of Balikpapan, is not merely a transport hub but one of the most modern and largest airports in eastern Indonesia. Opened in 2014 following a massive reconstruction, it welcomes travelers with futuristic architecture and an "eco-airport" concept, which includes energy-saving technologies and a water recycling system. The landing here is often described as a spectacular sight due to the runway's location. The airport has been recognized with awards from the Airports Council International for its high level of service.

The airport's passenger terminal is designed with ample capacity—it can serve up to 10 million people annually. For passenger convenience, there are 74 check-in counters and 11 aerobridges, minimizing wait times and making the boarding process fast and comfortable. In addition to civil aviation, the airport is also used as an Indonesian Air Force base. Thanks to its strategic location, it is set to become one of the main transport hubs for Indonesia's future capital, Nusantara.

If you need to contact the administration or services of Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport, please use the following contact details:

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations can be found on the official website sepinggan-airport.com.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +62 542 766 886. A unified contact center for the airport operator (Angkasa Pura I) is also available at 172.
• Airport Address: Jalan Marsma R. Iswahyudi, Sepinggan, Balikpapan Selatan, Kota Balikpapan, Kalimantan Timur 76115, Indonesia.
• Email: For written inquiries, you can use the address: cc.sepinggan@ap1.co.id.
• Social Media: Follow airport news and updates on official pages on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter): @ap_sepinggan.
• Lost Baggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative office. The airport's own Lost and Found service is available via WhatsApp: +62 811-5421-935.
• Passenger Support Service: For general inquiries and passenger assistance, use the main information desk phone number.

Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport (BPN) is conveniently located just a few kilometers east of the city center of Balikpapan, making the journey there quick and straightforward. Travelers have access to several transport options, allowing them to choose the best method depending on their budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences.

Taxis and Transfers are the most popular and comfortable way to reach the airport. You can use official taxi services, with counters located in the arrival terminal, or book a car through mobile apps popular in Indonesia, such as Gojek or Grab. The trip from the city center usually takes 20 to 40 minutes, though travel time may increase during peak hours due to traffic. This option is the most convenient, especially if you are traveling with family or a lot of luggage.

For those seeking a more economical option, DAMRI shuttle buses are suitable. They operate on fixed routes, connecting the airport with several key points in Balikpapan. This is a reliable and inexpensive mode of transport, although less flexible in terms of scheduling than a taxi. Local minibuses (known as "angkot") also circulate around the city, but their system can be complex for tourists who do not speak the local language.

If you value independence and plan to travel extensively around the region, consider car rental. Several international and local rental agencies operate in the city. The road to the airport is well-marked, and there is a large parking area on the premises where you can leave a car for both short and long periods. This is an excellent choice for independent travelers.

Overall, the choice of transport depends on your priorities. A taxi ensures maximum comfort, while a bus offers significant savings. In any case, it is recommended to leave early to avoid rushing. The airport is a key transport hub for all of East Kalimantan, from where travelers often depart to other cities in the region, such as Samarinda.

Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport in Balikpapan is a modern and well-designed complex. A key feature of its structure is the single passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This organization significantly simplifies navigation for travelers, as there is no need to move between different buildings.

The terminal has a multi-level structure typical of modern airports. The Departure Zone is located on the upper floor. It includes a spacious check-in hall with numerous airline counters and self-check-in kiosks. After this, passengers proceed to security checkpoints and, for international flights, to passport control, and then to the general waiting area with boarding gates. The Arrival Zone is located on the lower, ground floor. Here, passengers retrieve their luggage, pass through customs control (if arriving from abroad), and exit to the taxi stands and parking area.

Completing all pre-flight procedures usually does not take much time thanks to well-organized operations. The standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. During peak load periods, such as national holidays, it is worth arriving with extra time, as queues for check-in and security may be longer.

Navigating inside the terminal is quite simple. Signs are in Indonesian and English, helping tourists easily find the necessary zones. Electronic boards with up-to-date information on flights, check-in counter numbers, and boarding gates are installed throughout the building. If you have questions, you can always ask the staff at the information desks. Since all services are under one roof, getting lost here is virtually impossible.

The history of the airport in Balikpapan began long before it received its modern, majestic name. Its roots go back to the Dutch colonial era, when in the 1930s the oil company Bataafsche Petroleum Maatschappij built a simple runway here for its needs. In those years, it was known as Sepinggan Airfield and served primarily to support the region's booming oil industry.

The airfield played a key role during World War II. Due to its strategic position and proximity to oil fields, it became an important site in the Pacific theater of operations. After the war ended and Indonesia gained independence, the airport came under state management and began to gradually develop as a civil facility, connecting Balikpapan with other cities in the country.

A real breakthrough in the airport's history occurred in the 21st century. Due to the growth in passenger traffic and the economic significance of the city, a decision was made for radical modernization. In 2014, a new, ultra-modern terminal was grandly opened. This event marked not only a manifold increase in capacity but also a change of name: the airport was named after Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman, in honor of the historical ruler of the Kutai Sultanate.

The new terminal is not just a building, but a source of pride for the city. It is designed with a focus on environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, for which it has received several prestigious international awards. An interesting fact: at the time of opening, it was one of the first airports in Indonesia to integrate a full-fledged shopping mall into its concept, offering passengers a wide range of services and entertainment right within the terminal building. Since then, Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport has become a symbol of a modern and dynamically developing Balikpapan.

Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport in Balikpapan is a modern and comfortable complex offering passengers a full range of services for a pleasant wait before their flight. Before departure, you can visit numerous restaurants and cafes, serving both authentic cuisine of Indonesia and familiar international dishes. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, and global brand products in the Duty Free zone.

For those who value enhanced comfort, the terminal features premium waiting lounges and VIP lounges. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, read the latest press, or work. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous outlets and special stations are provided for charging gadgets.

Financial matters are easily resolved on-site: the airport has bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points. In case of illness or the need for medical assistance, a 24-hour medical center is available to provide first aid.

Travelers with children will appreciate the presence of play areas and mother-and-child rooms equipped with everything necessary for baby care. A barrier-free environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility: ramps, special restrooms, and elevators. Additionally, escort services can be booked in advance.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, there are hotels of various price categories located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal and on its premises. For business travelers, the airport offers business center services and halls for negotiations or conferences, allowing efficient use of time while waiting for a flight.

Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport in the city of Balikpapan offers passengers diverse dining options capable of satisfying both those rushing for a flight and those with time for a full meal. Dining establishments are located in both the public area (landside) and the secure area for departing passengers (airside).

In the public area, before passing security control, you will find several cafes and a small food court. This is an excellent place to have a snack if you arrived early or are meeting arrivals. Here you can drink coffee with pastries at popular chain coffee shops or try dishes of local Indonesian cuisine. Prices here are generally slightly lower than in the departure zone.

After passing passport and customs control (airside), the selection becomes even wider. At your service are several restaurants and cafes offering both international and Asian dishes. If you want a quick bite, look for spots with sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. For a more substantial meal, restaurants where you can order Nasi Goreng (fried rice) or Soto (traditional soup) are suitable. Most establishments operate from early morning until the departure of the last flight.

Regarding special dietary needs, almost all food in the airport is Halal, which is standard for Indonesia. Vegetarians will find it easy to find dishes based on rice and vegetables, however, it is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff. Finding certified gluten-free or vegan dishes might be challenging, so it is better to arrange a suitable snack in advance. Overall, BPN Airport provides comfortable conditions to refresh yourself before a flight, offering options for every taste and budget.

To ensure your journey through Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport in the city of Balikpapan goes as comfortably as possible, take advantage of these tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and save time, allowing you to enjoy the anticipation of your trip around Indonesia.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic ones — 1.5-2 hours. This time is sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website. This way, you will only need to drop off your luggage at the special counter (Drop-off) and proceed to security control.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If you want to admire the views, choose a window seat. If you value freedom of movement and the ability to exit the plane first — your place is by the aisle. Regarding hand luggage, standard international rules apply: liquids up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Be sure to check the list of prohibited items on your airline's website, as it may differ slightly. Generally, sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances cannot be taken into the cabin.

Passengers with Transfers. If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Usually, when flying with one airline or alliance, luggage is transferred automatically. Follow the "Transit" or "Transfer" signs to move to the required terminal or departure gate. Ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if passport control is required.

Customs Control and Savings. When entering the country, be prepared to fill out a customs declaration. Declare all goods subject to mandatory declaration to avoid fines. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security control. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are typically higher, so you can bring a light snack with you.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, remain calm. All up-to-date information will be displayed on the departure boards. Contact your airline representative for clarification. Depending on the length of the delay, the airline is obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, and for long waits — hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance can also be useful in such situations.