Halim Perdanakusuma Airport

Halim Perdanakusuma Airport is something of a "secret weapon" for seasoned travellers heading to the Indonesian capital. Located directly within East Jakarta, it compares favourably to its giant counterpart, Soekarno-Hatta, thanks to its intimate atmosphere and incredible proximity to the city centre. Originally built as a military base, today this airport serves commercial flights, government delegations, and private aviation, offering passengers a swift check-in process and the absence of long, tiring transfers after landing.

Features and Advantages:

The main advantage of Halim is its location. If your hotel is located in central districts (Menteng, Kuningan, or near the Monas monument), the journey from this airport will take significantly less time than from the main international hub, which is particularly valuable given the legendary Jakarta traffic jams.

A second major plus is the compactness of the terminal. There are no endless corridors or confusing walkways here: the path from the check-in counter to the boarding gate takes mere minutes. This makes the airport an ideal choice for short trips across Java and other islands of the archipelago.

The airport has a rich history and is named in honour of an Indonesian national hero. Despite its modest size, it offers a basic set of amenities: cafes, ATMs, and waiting lounges. Transport accessibility is also excellent — it is easy to get here by taxi or using driver-hailing apps popular in Asia.

To ensure your journey runs smoothly, we have prepared a list of key contacts for Halim Perdanakusuma Airport (HLP). Before flying, it is always useful to verify information on official resources.

• Official Website: Current schedules, rules, and a list of services are available on the airport's page on the Angkasa Pura II management company portal: angkasapura2.co.id.
• Information Service Phone: For immediate information, you can call the unified contact centre on the short number 138.
• Airport Address: Jl. Halim Perdana Kusuma, Halim Perdana Kusumah, Kec. Makasar, Kota Jakarta Timur, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 13610, Indonesia.
• Email: For written enquiries and requests, use the operator's contact centre e-mail: contact.center@angkasapura2.co.id.
• Social Media: Follow news and operational updates on the airport's official social media pages, for example, on Instagram (@halimperdanakusuma.airport).
• Lost Luggage Information: If you do not find your luggage upon arrival, first contact your airline's Lost & Found service. If items were lost within the terminal, contact the relevant service of the airport itself.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For most general questions, including parking, terminal navigation, and available services, you can contact them by phone at 138 or via the feedback form on the official website.

Halim Perdanakusuma Airport (HLP) is located significantly closer to the centre of Jakarta than the main Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, making it a convenient point for many domestic flights across Indonesia. You can get there in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps. This is the most popular and convenient option. In Jakarta, apps like Grab and Gojek are widely used, offering trips at fixed and usually reasonable prices. You can also use official taxi services, such as Blue Bird, which have counters at the airport. A trip from the city centre without traffic will take about 30-45 minutes, however, during peak hours, this time can increase to one and a half hours or more. The cost will vary depending on the distance and road conditions.

Public Transport. For budget-conscious travellers, DAMRI shuttle buses are a good choice. They run on fixed routes, connecting the airport with key points in the city, such as Gambir Station and various terminals. This is a reliable and inexpensive way to travel. You can also use the TransJakarta bus rapid transit system; its corridors closest to the airport run along major highways. From the stop to the terminal, you will likely need to take a short taxi or motorcycle taxi (ojek) ride.

Train and LRT. There is no direct rail link to Halim Airport. However, to avoid part of the notorious Jakarta traffic, you can take the KRL Commuterline train to Cawang station or the LRT Jabodebek light rail line to the station of the same name. From there, only a few kilometres remain to the airport, which can easily be covered by taxi.

Car Rental and Parking. If you prefer to drive yourself, you can rent a car. However, bear in mind that driving in Jakarta is a real challenge due to chaotic and dense traffic. The airport has zones for short-term and long-term parking, but finding a free space during peak hours can be difficult.

Recommendation: Regardless of the chosen transport, always leave for the airport with plenty of time to spare. Traffic jams in Jakarta are unpredictable, and it is better to spend an extra hour waiting for your flight than to miss it.

Halim Perdanakusuma Airport (HLP) is distinguished by a simple and clear structure, making it convenient for passengers. The airport operates one main passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and a limited number of charter and private flights. This compactness is a key advantage, as navigation is intuitive even for first-time visitors.

The terminal layout is extremely logical. All main zones — check-in, security, waiting lounges, baggage claim — are located in one building a short distance from each other. Departure and arrival zones are clearly demarcated but located within walking distance. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers or shuttles between them, which significantly simplifies movement.

Check-in and security procedures at HLP generally proceed noticeably faster than at major international airports, thanks to lower passenger traffic. Usually, all formalities take little time. Nevertheless, it is recommended to adhere to standard rules and arrive at the airport approximately 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure to pass through all stages without rushing.

The terminal is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait. There are several cafes, small shops, rest areas, and information counters. The main advice for navigation is simply to follow the standard signs. Thanks to the airport's compact size and thoughtful layout, you will easily find your boarding gate or baggage claim area without the risk of getting lost.

The history of Halim Perdanakusuma Airport (HLP) is rich and closely intertwined with the history of aviation in the entire country. Its story began in the colonial era when it was built as the military airfield Vliegveld Tjililitan. Initially, it was used by the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army Air Force and played a key role in the region's military aviation.

An important turning point came after Indonesia gained independence. In 1952, the airport received its current name in honour of Halim Perdanakusuma, a national hero and one of the country's first aviators. For many years, right up until the opening of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in 1985, HLP served as the main air gateway to the capital, Jakarta, hosting international and domestic flights and serving as the primary centre for civil aviation in the country.

With the advent of the new, more modern airport, the role of Halim Perdanakusuma changed. It switched to servicing Indonesian Air Force flights, government aircraft, private, and charter aviation. This period cemented its status as a vital strategic facility, keeping it active, albeit in a slightly different capacity.

The newest chapter in the airport's history began in 2014. To reduce the load on the capital's main airport, a decision was made to resume regular commercial flights from Halim Perdanakusuma. This required significant infrastructure modernisation. In 2022, a large-scale reconstruction of the runway and terminal facilities was carried out, allowing the airport to meet modern standards and once again become an important hub for domestic travel.

Interesting fact: Halim Perdanakusuma is one of the few major airports in the world that so successfully combines the functions of a military airbase and a civil airport, whilst being located practically within the city limits of a metropolis. Its history is a living reflection of the evolution of Indonesian aviation over nearly a century.

Halim Perdanakusuma Airport offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. If you are hungry, several restaurants and cafes are at your service, where you can grab a quick snack or have a full lunch. Establishments featuring Indonesian cuisine as well as popular coffee shops are represented here. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, press, or essential items.

For those who prefer to await their departure in a calmer environment, the airport has several premium waiting lounges. Access to these is usually granted to business class passengers, loyalty programme members, or for a separate fee. Lounges typically offer complimentary snacks, beverages, and a more secluded atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special stations are provided for charging electronic devices.

Financial matters can also be easily resolved at the airport. For passenger convenience, currency exchange points are in operation, and ATMs from various local and international banks are installed. In case of illness or the need for first aid, a medical centre functions in the terminal, where qualified staff are ready to provide necessary support.

The airport also cares for passengers with special needs. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped where you can feed and change a baby in a quiet setting. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with necessary assistance, including escort and wheelchair provision. It is recommended to book this service in advance through your airline.

Although there is no hotel within the airport building itself, its location within the city limits ensures easy access to a multitude of hotels nearby — from budget options to high-class hotels. For business travellers, basic business services, such as workspaces and access to office equipment, may be available in the premium waiting lounges.

Despite its compact size, Halim Perdanakusuma Airport offers passengers a decent selection of establishments where one can have a snack or a full meal before departure. The main focus is on Indonesian cuisine, which provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy local dishes one last time before flying out of Jakarta.

Most cafes and restaurants are located in the main terminal area, both before and after security control. Here you will find both small kiosks with snacks and drinks, and cosy cafes with seating. Among them, popular local chains are often found, offering familiar and authentic dishes.

Be sure to try something from the local cuisine. Look out for dishes such as Soto Ayam (aromatic chicken soup), Nasi Goreng (fried rice), or Bakso (meatball soup). This is an excellent choice for a hearty lunch. If time is short, grab a cup of strong Indonesian coffee and traditional pastries known as kue.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding Halal dishes will not be difficult, as this is the standard for the majority of establishments in Indonesia. Vegetarians will also have plenty to choose from — many Indonesian dishes are prepared based on rice and vegetables. However, specialised vegan or gluten-free menus may not be available, so it is better to clarify ingredients with the staff. The price range is generally moderate, although slightly higher than in the city, which is typical for airports.

Most establishments operate in accordance with the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last aircraft. For a quick snack, coffee shops or kiosks with sandwiches and pastries are ideal. If you have time for a full lunch, feel free to choose one of the cafes offering set menus with rice, meat or fish, and vegetables.

Planning a trip through Halim Perdanakusuma Airport will be easier if you take into account a few useful tips. These recommendations will help you save time, reduce stress, and make your journey more comfortable.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Although Halim Perdanakusuma is smaller than the capital's main airport, it is worth arriving early. We recommend being on-site 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be enough to pass through all formalities without rushing, even if queues arise.

Check-in and Security Control. The fastest way to check in for a flight is online check-in on your airline's website. This will allow you to avoid queues at the counters. When passing through security control, have your passport and boarding pass ready. Be prepared that you may be asked to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If you have the opportunity to choose a seat during check-in, consider what is more important to you. Window seats (A, F) will offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, whilst aisle seats (C, D) will allow you to stand up freely without disturbing your neighbours.

Hand Luggage. Take all valuable items into the aircraft cabin: documents, money, gadgets, and portable chargers (power banks). Remember the restriction on carrying liquids — all bottles must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp and cutting objects are strictly prohibited.

Transit Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, follow the "Transit" / "Transfer" signs. Clarify in advance with your airline whether you need to collect your luggage and re-register it for the next flight. Usually, if both flights are operated by the same airline or its partners, luggage will be transferred automatically.

Customs Control. When entering Indonesia through Jakarta airport, you will have to pass customs control. Fill out the declaration in advance if you are carrying goods subject to declaration. If you only have personal items with you, feel free to go through the "Green Channel".

Saving Time and Money. To avoid overpaying for a transfer, use the official taxi counters at the airport or book a car through verified mobile apps. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are traditionally higher, so you can take an empty bottle with you and fill it with water at drinking fountains after the security zone.

Flight Delays. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to request compensation later.