Mokmer Airport

Frans Kaisiepo Airport, also known by its historical name Mokmer, is not merely a transport hub but a true legend of the Pacific region with a rich military past. Its famous runway, built during the Second World War, is considered one of the longest in this part of the world and is capable of accommodating even the heaviest airliners, which is a rarity for remote islands. Upon arrival, travellers immediately feel the atmosphere of exotic Indonesia: the terminal building is immersed in tropical greenery, and the fresh sea breeze serves as a reminder that the best beaches and coral reefs are very close by.

Airport Features and Highlights

Frans Kaisiepo Airport combines unique historical heritage with natural beauty, turning arrival on the island into a distinct little adventure.

• Unique Runway: The airport's main pride is its runway, measuring 3,571 metres in length. Inherited from a massive Allied airbase, it allows the airport to receive all types of modern aircraft without weight restrictions.
• Scenic Approach: Aircraft often approach from the ocean side, flying low over turquoise waters and colourful coral reefs. A window seat guarantees you one of the most breathtaking aerial excursions before you even touch the ground.
• No Queues: Despite its high status and capabilities, passenger traffic here remains moderate. This ensures a calm atmosphere, quick passport control, and baggage claim without unnecessary bustle.
• Proximity to the City: The airport is located practically within the city limits. The journey to most hotels or the seaport takes just 5–10 minutes by taxi, which is incredibly convenient after a long flight.
• Historical Atmosphere: The airport surroundings attract military history enthusiasts, as echoes of mid-20th-century events can still be found here. The terminal itself, though simple, is adorned with elements of traditional Papuan architecture, creating a special local flavour.

Below is the contact information for Mokmer Airport (Frans Kaisiepo Airport), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential queries.

• Official Website: You will find the most accurate and up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations on the official website of the operator, Angkasa Pura I. We recommend checking details there: ap1.co.id.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate assistance and consultations, you can call the number: +62 981 21971.
• Airport Address: Frans Kaisiepo International Airport, Jl. Raya Mokmer, Biak, Papua, Indonesia.
• Email: A dedicated email address for passengers is often not published. For communication, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website or call the information desk.
• Social Media: You can follow news and updates on the airport's official Instagram page: @franskaisiepoairport_ap1.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you must first contact your airline's Lost & Found counter in the arrival hall.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you may contact the information desk at the phone number listed above.

Getting to Mokmer Airport (BIQ) from the city of Biak in Indonesia is effortless, as it is located just a few kilometres from the centre. A trip by car or taxi usually takes no more than 10-15 minutes. The main modes of transport are taxis, motorcycle taxis (ojek), and rented vehicles, while traditional public transport is represented mainly by local minibuses.

For budget travellers and those seeking an authentic experience, there are local minibuses known as bemo or angkot. This is the cheapest way to travel, but it may not be the most comfortable if you have a lot of luggage. Routes and schedules can be unpredictable, and the buses themselves are often crowded. A much more popular and faster option is the ojek (motorcycle taxi) — an ideal choice for solo travellers with a backpack. An ojek ride to the airport will take just a few minutes and cost very little.

The most comfortable way to get to the airport is by taxi. A car can be found in the city or ordered by phone. It is important to remember that not all taxis are equipped with meters, so it is strongly recommended to agree on the fare in advance to avoid misunderstandings. The estimated price for a trip from the city centre to the airport is around 50,000 – 100,000 Indonesian Rupiah. Online transport services such as Gojek or Grab may also be available in Biak. The most reliable option is to book a transfer through your hotel. Many hotels provide this service for their guests, guaranteeing timely arrival at the airport without unnecessary hassle.

If you prefer independence in movement, you can rent a car or scooter. Rental points can be found in the city, or you can arrange for the vehicle to be delivered directly to the airport. A popular service is renting a car with a driver, which eliminates the need to navigate local traffic peculiarities. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided. It consists of an open lot next to the terminal; the cost is low, and it is suitable for both short-term and long-term parking.

To summarise, here are a few key recommendations: for maximum convenience, especially with luggage, book a transfer through your hotel. If you are travelling light and want to save money, your choice is the ojek. When using a regular taxi, always confirm the price before starting the trip. Also, do not forget to carry a sufficient amount of cash in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), as non-cash payments are not accepted everywhere.

Mokmer Airport (BIK), serving the island of Biak, is a small and functional aviation hub typical of regional airports in Indonesia. It consists of a single terminal that handles both domestic and the few international flights. Such a compact structure makes the airport very easy to navigate, and you will not have to worry about transfers between terminals.

The airport layout is extremely simple and intuitive. Inside the single building, the departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. Upon entering, you find yourself in a general hall with several check-in counters. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area, followed by a small waiting lounge with a boarding gate. The arrival zone is located in another part of the building and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city.

Due to the small size of the airport, all procedures are completed quite quickly. Check-in and security screening usually take no more than 20–30 minutes; however, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight to avoid unforeseen delays. Navigating the terminal will not cause difficulties: signs, though few, will help you orient yourself, and staff are always ready to assist. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

The history of Mokmer Airport (BIK) is inextricably linked with key events of the 20th century in the Pacific region. Its creation occurred at the height of the Second World War when the island of Biak held immense strategic importance. The airfield was originally built by Japanese forces in 1943 to support their military operations.

A key turning point in the airport's history occurred in 1944. During fierce battles, the island was occupied by Allied forces, who immediately commenced a massive expansion and modernisation of the airfield. It was during this period that long and durable runways capable of accommodating heavy bombers were constructed. Mokmer Airport transformed into one of the largest and busiest Allied airbases in the Southwest Pacific, playing a significant role in subsequent campaigns.

After the war ended, the military base was converted into a civil airport and transferred to the administration of the authorities of Indonesia. It became the main air gateway to the island and an important transport hub for the entire West New Guinea region. Its military past left a unique legacy — one of the longest runways in the country, which still allows it to receive large long-haul aircraft.

In the following decades, Mokmer Airport underwent reconstruction several times to meet modern civil aviation requirements. The terminal, navigation equipment, and infrastructure were modernised. Today, it is a modern airport that not only serves passenger and cargo flights but also preserves the memory of its rich and strategically important history, serving as a kind of open-air historical monument.

Mokmer Airport (BIK) is a small regional airport providing passengers with all basic amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Although the infrastructure here is not as extensive as in major international hubs, you will find everything necessary for a short stay.

Within the terminal, there are several small cafes where you can have a snack of local cuisine, drink coffee, or enjoy refreshments. There are also kiosks offering snacks, water, and travel goods. For those looking for souvenirs, shops selling local handicrafts are open, which will serve as an excellent memento of your trip to Biak Island.

Waiting areas are equipped in the airport for comfortable boarding. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort may have access to a VIP lounge, though it is recommended to check its availability and conditions of use with your airline in advance. Charging stations for electronic devices can be found in the terminal building. Access to the Wi-Fi network may be limited, so it is better to use mobile data for a stable connection.

Regarding financial services, ATMs are available at the airport where you can withdraw cash. Currency exchange points may operate on a limited schedule, so it is worth arranging money exchange beforehand. In case of need, a medical post is available in the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with special needs. Mother and child rooms are provided for travellers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility are offered assistance when moving through the terminal, boarding, and disembarking from the aircraft — for this, it is necessary to notify the air carrier in advance. There are no specialised business centres or conference halls at the airport, but the nearest hotels are located in the city of Biak, a few minutes' drive from the airport.

Mokmer Airport (BIK) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest but sufficient for a snack before departure. Do not expect fast-food chains or fine dining restaurants here; instead, you will find several simple cafes and kiosks reflecting the local flavour.

All food outlets are located in the main and only terminal, usually in the public area (landside) before passing security control. This is convenient if you are seeing someone off or arrived at the airport early. In the sterile area (airside), the choice is usually limited to a kiosk with drinks and packaged snacks.

What to try:

• For a full meal: The main menu in local cafes usually includes Indonesian cuisine classics. You will almost certainly be able to order Nasi Goreng (fried rice) or Mie Goreng (fried noodles) with chicken, egg, or vegetables. This is a hearty and inexpensive option.
• For a quick snack: Look out for local pies, pastries (kue), and packaged snacks such as chips or crackers (krupuk). Refreshments, bottled water, tea, and local coffee (kopi) are also always available.

Features and Prices:

Prices at the airport in Biak are very affordable compared to major international hubs. A full meal will cost you very little. regarding dietary preferences, the majority of establishments in Indonesia offer Halal food by default. Vegetarians can ask to prepare Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng without meat (tanpa daging), but vegan and gluten-free options will be extremely difficult to find. Cafe opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so they are open during the day when there are departures and arrivals.

To ensure your journey through Mokmer Airport in the city of Biak goes smoothly, make use of these helpful tips. By planning details in advance, you can avoid stress and save time, starting your adventure in Indonesia with pleasant impressions.

Arrival Time at the Airport: Mokmer Airport is a small regional hub, so there are rarely long queues here. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to check in for the flight, drop off luggage, and pass security control without rushing.

Check-in and Control: Keep your passport (or other identification) and ticket ready. Procedures at small airports usually go faster than at major hubs, but preparing documents always saves time. Ensure your luggage complies with the airline's weight and size regulations to avoid extra charges.

Seat Selection: If there is an option to choose a seat during online check-in, take advantage of it. Window seats will offer you stunning views of the islands and ocean during take-off and landing. Aisle seats are more convenient if you want free access to the exit or plan to get up often during the flight.

Hand Luggage: Standard security rules apply here as well. Liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, flammable substances, and other dangerous goods are prohibited. Always check the current rules of your airline to avoid unpleasant surprises at control.

Passengers with Transfers: Mokmer Airport is rarely used as a transit hub. If you do have a transfer planned, verify with the airline in advance whether you need to collect luggage and check in for the next flight again. Be prepared that transferring to another flight may require exiting to the public zone.

Customs Control: This procedure is relevant mainly for international flights, which are rare at Biak Airport. If you are arriving from another country, you will need to fill out a customs declaration and pass through the appropriate channel. For flights within Indonesia, customs control is not required.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, book a transfer from the airport in advance or research local transport options. Prices for food and drinks at the airport may be higher, so you can bring a small snack with you. Time savings are achieved through online check-in and travelling with only hand luggage.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (water, meals). In a small airport like Mokmer, leisure opportunities are limited, so download films, take a book, or charge your power bank in advance to brighten up the wait.