Sentani Airport

Sentani Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the enigmatic and pristine world of Papua. Even during descent, passengers are treated to a breathtaking view of the picturesque Lake Sentani, the waters of which come almost up to the runway, creating the sensation of a water landing. This airport serves as the main starting point for travellers seeking to explore the unique tribal culture and untouched nature of Indonesia's easternmost province.

Airport Features and Highlights

Unique Location. The airport is located in the Sentani district, a significant distance from the city of Jayapura (about an hour's drive), but this is compensated by stunning scenery. The terminal is situated literally a few hundred metres from the shores of the vast Lake Sentani, surrounded by the green Cyclops Mountains.

Colourful Design. Following a major renovation carried out for the National Sports Week (PON XX) in 2021, the terminal has acquired a modern look. The interiors are decorated with traditional Papuan ornaments and carvings, immersing guests in the local atmosphere from their very first minutes.

Important Hub. Sentani is the busiest airport in the Indonesian part of New Guinea. From here, small aircraft used for missionary and light aviation depart for inaccessible jungle areas and mountain valleys that cannot be reached by land.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to contact the Sentani Airport services directly. Below are the main contact details that may be useful for travellers.

• Official Website: Most airports in Indonesia, including Sentani, are managed by Angkasa Pura I. Current information can be found on their official portal (usually at sentani.ap1.co.id) or on the operator's main website.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information regarding flights, services, or general enquiries, you can call: +62 967 591171.
• Airport Address: Jl. Raya Sentani, Sentani Kota, Kecamatan Sentani, Kabupaten Jayapura, Papua, Indonesia.
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is rarely published. The most effective method is to use the feedback form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: For news and updates, you can follow the official pages of the operator Angkasa Pura I on popular social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. If luggage was lost within the terminal premises, contact the information desk or airport security.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For passenger assistance, including for persons with reduced mobility, you should contact your airline in advance or call the general airport information service to coordinate actions.

Sentani Airport (DJJ) is located approximately 40 kilometres west of the city centre of Jayapura, in the town of Sentani itself. The journey between the airport and the city usually takes between 60 to 90 minutes, though travel time can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. There are several ways to cover this distance, suitable for different budgets and preferences.

The most economical way to get to the airport is by public transport. State buses operated by Damri run regularly between the airport and key points in Jayapura. The trip will cost approximately 50,000–75,000 Indonesian Rupiah. This is a reliable, albeit not the fastest, option. For a more authentic experience, one can use local minibuses known as angkot, but this method requires knowledge of the routes and may be uncomfortable with large luggage. Please note that there is no metro or rail service in Jayapura.

The most convenient and popular option for tourists is taxi or online ride-hailing services. Official taxi counters are located directly in the arrival terminal; it is recommended to use their services to avoid inflated prices. The cost of a trip to the city centre is usually 300,000–400,000 Rupiah. An even more convenient alternative is mobile apps such as Grab, which are widely used in Indonesia. They offer rides at a fixed price, which is often slightly lower (around 250,000–350,000 Rupiah), eliminating the need to haggle.

For those planning to actively travel around the region, car rental can be a good solution. Rental agencies offer various vehicles, and it is common practice to rent a car complete with a driver, which saves you from having to navigate unfamiliar traffic. If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking facilities are provided on the premises for both short-term and long-term stays.

Tips for Travellers: For your first trip and to save time, it is best to choose a taxi from the official counter or book a car via an app. If your budget is limited, Damri buses are an excellent choice. Regardless of the chosen method, always allow extra time for the journey, especially during peak hours. It is advisable to have cash in Indonesian Rupiah for payment, particularly for public transport.

Sentani Airport (DJJ) is a relatively small and easy-to-navigate airport, which is a significant advantage for travellers. You will not have to worry about complicated transfers or long walks between terminals, as everything here is arranged as compactly as possible.

The airport consists of one main passenger terminal that serves all flights—both domestic and the rare international ones. Thanks to this, the airport structure is very simple and intuitive. Inside the single building, departure and arrival zones are clearly separated, so you will not need complex maps for orientation. Transfers between terminals are non-existent as they are unnecessary.

The departure zone includes check-in counters located in the main hall, followed by the security checkpoint. After passing through, passengers enter a general waiting lounge with several boarding gates. The arrival zone consists of baggage reclaim belts and a hall for greeters, from where one can exit to the taxi stand and other transport. Everything is within walking distance of each other.

Completing all pre-flight procedures usually does not take much time. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is usually more than sufficient to check in calmly, drop off luggage, and pass through security. Due to its simplicity and small size, it is practically impossible to get lost here, and signs in Indonesian and English will help you find your way.

The history of Sentani Airport is inextricably linked to the dramatic events of the Second World War. It was built not as a civil facility, but as a military airfield. In 1942, Japanese engineering troops constructed it on the northern coast of New Guinea to support their military operations in the Pacific region. At that time, it was known as Hollandia Airfield.

A key moment in the airport's history occurred in April 1944, when Allied forces under the command of General Douglas MacArthur captured the airfield during Operation Reckless. Following its capture, it was significantly expanded and turned into a major command and logistics centre. Units of the US Fifth Air Force were based here, and the airfield complex in the Hollandia area became one of the most important staging grounds for the subsequent Allied advance towards the Philippines and Japan.

After the war ended, the military airfield was converted into a civil airport and transferred to the administration of Dutch New Guinea. In the 1960s, after the transfer of Western New Guinea to the sovereignty of Indonesia, Sentani Airport became the main air hub for the entire province. Since then, it has played a key role in providing transport connections for the city of Jayapura and the entire Papua region, known for its difficult mountainous terrain.

Throughout its history, the airport has been modernized repeatedly. The runway was reconstructed to accommodate modern medium-haul aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. A new passenger terminal was also built, and navigation systems were upgraded. Today, Sentani Airport is not just a transport hub, but a vital artery connecting remote settlements of Papua with the rest of the country and the world.

One interesting fact is that the airport received its name from the picturesque Lake Sentani, on the shores of which it is situated. The military past still resonates: in the vicinity of the airport and at the bottom of the lake, one can still find artefacts from World War II, attracting history enthusiasts and divers.

Sentani Airport (DJJ) provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Before departure, you can have a snack at one of the local cafes serving Indonesian dishes or drink a cup of aromatic coffee. Small shops also operate within the terminal, where you can buy souvenirs, snacks, drinks, and essential goods.

For those who prefer to wait for their flight in a quieter environment, the airport has a business lounge. Access may be available for a fee or via airline loyalty cards—it is best to check conditions in advance. Wi-Fi is available to passengers throughout the terminal, and special stations and sockets are provided in waiting areas for charging electronic devices.

The airport features ATMs from several local banks where cash can be withdrawn. Currency exchange points are also available, although the choice of currencies may be limited. In case of illness or the need for first aid, a medical post operates within the terminal building.

For passengers travelling with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped where one can feed and change a baby in a calm environment. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with necessary assistance, including escorts and wheelchairs. It is recommended to book this service in advance through your airline.

There are no hotels directly inside the airport building; however, numerous accommodation options to suit any taste and budget are located a few minutes' drive away in the outskirts of Jayapura. There are no specialised conference halls at the airport, but basic amenities allow for a comfortable time before boarding the plane.

At Sentani Airport (DJJ), travellers will find several options for a snack or a full meal, allowing for an introduction to the basics of Indonesian cuisine. The selection of establishments here is not as large as in capital city airports, but you certainly won't go hungry.

Most cafes and small eateries (warung) are concentrated in the public area before security control (landside). Here you can order hearty and popular dishes such as Nasi Goreng (fried rice with chicken or seafood) or Soto Ayam (aromatic chicken soup). This is a great opportunity to try authentic food at reasonable prices. After passing through security (airside), in the departure zone, the choice is usually limited to kiosks selling drinks, sandwiches, and light snacks.

If you are looking for something special, look out for establishments offering fresh fish dishes—a signature of the region. For a quick snack, a cup of strong local coffee with traditional Indonesian pastries is ideal. Regarding special dietary requirements, the majority of dishes in Indonesia are Halal. Vegetarians can almost always find rice with vegetables (nasi sayur) on the menu. However, specialised vegan or gluten-free options are unlikely to be found here, so if you have strict restrictions, it is better to bring food with you.

Dining establishments at Jayapura airport are usually open throughout flight operation hours—from early morning until the departure of the last plane. If you plan to have a full lunch, it is better to do so before checking in for your flight, as the main and most interesting cafes are located in the public zone.

To ensure your journey through Sentani Airport goes as smoothly as possible, it is worth considering a few practical tips. Planning ahead will help avoid unnecessary stress and make the start or end of your trip to Jayapura comfortable.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights within Indonesia, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. This will give you enough time to complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass security control without rushing, especially during peak hours.

Check-in and Security: If possible, complete online check-in for your flight in advance—this will save you time. At the airport, keep your passport, tickets, and other necessary documents ready. Screening procedures are standard but can take time, so follow staff instructions and be prepared to present electronics and liquids for inspection.

Seat Selection: The Papua region is famous for its incredible landscapes. If you want to enjoy views of the mountains, jungles, and coast during take-off or landing, choose a window seat. For greater comfort and legroom, an aisle seat is more suitable.

Hand Luggage: Ensure your hand luggage complies with airline regulations. Standard restrictions include a ban on carrying liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, sharp objects, and flammable substances. Always carry power banks and spare lithium batteries only in hand luggage, never in checked baggage.

Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Allow sufficient time between flights, as minor delays are possible. Sentani Airport is not very large, which simplifies navigation.

Customs Control: When arriving on an international flight to Indonesia (even if the final destination is Jayapura), you will have to pass through customs control. Declare all goods subject to declaration to avoid fines. For domestic flights, customs inspection is usually not required.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are typically higher. It is also useful to research transfer options to the city in advance and compare prices for taxis or other modes of transport.

In Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and your rights to compensation (e.g., meal vouchers). Keep your phone charged and have a book or downloaded films to while away the wait.