Mopah Airport

Welcome to Mopah Airport — Indonesia's easternmost aerial gateway, where travellers witness the sunrise before anyone else in the country. This airport is not merely an impersonal transport hub but a true architectural landmark, with a design inspired by the unique giant "musamus" termite mounds that are a hallmark of the region. Upon arrival, you are immediately immersed in the atmosphere of South Papua, where modern technology harmoniously intertwines with wild nature and local traditions.

The main feature and pride of the airport is its unique architecture. The terminal building is stylised to resemble musamus — the tall earthen termite structures characteristic of the Merauke surroundings. This gives the airport a recognisable appearance and makes it an excellent location for your first photos in the region. Furthermore, the terminal underwent a massive reconstruction in 2015, ensuring passengers are welcomed by spacious halls with high ceilings, natural lighting, and an efficient air conditioning system to provide relief from the tropical heat.

Another undeniable advantage is its convenient location. The airport is situated literally within the city limits, so the journey to most hotels and central streets takes just a few minutes. Despite its status as a regional airport, a high level of service and cleanliness is maintained here, and the compact layout allows for completing all formalities as quickly as possible, without unnecessary bustle or long walks.

Below is the contact information for Mopah Airport (MKQ) in Merauke. Please note that some details may change, so it is recommended to verify their accuracy before your trip.

• Official Website: Mopah Airport does not currently have a separate official website. Information can be found on the portals of the Indonesian aviation authorities managing the airport.
• Information Desk Phone: +62 971 321678
• Airport Address: Jalan PGT, Mopah, Merauke, Kabupaten Merauke, Papua, Indonesia
• Email: A specialised email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the telephone number for communication.
• Social Media: You can clarify information about flights and airport operations on the official Instagram page: @upbumopahmerauke.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you must contact the representative of the airline you used directly. For items left within the terminal building, please contact the airport information desk.
• Customer Support Contacts: For general information, assistance, and enquiries, you can contact the airport information desk via the main phone number: +62 971 321678.

Mopah Airport (MKQ) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Merauke, making the journey there quick and convenient. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several ways to get to the terminal. The trip from the city centre usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes.

Taxi and Transfer — the most comfortable and predictable option. You can order a car through your hotel, hail one on the street, or use the services of local taxi companies. The cost of the trip will be low, however, it is recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance or ensure they use a meter. This is a reliable way to get to the airport, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

For solo travellers with light luggage, an excellent alternative is a motorcycle taxi, known in Indonesia as "ojek". This is a very fast and budget-friendly mode of transport that allows you to easily bypass potential traffic jams. You can find an ojek driver at almost any busy intersection.

The cheapest way is to use local public transport, represented by minibuses called "bemo". They do not have a strict schedule and depart as they fill up with passengers. This option is suitable for economical and adventurous travellers, as the route may not pass directly by the airport entrance, and a short walk might be required. It is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

If you prefer independence, you can rent a car. In Merauke, as in many other Indonesian cities, the service of renting a car with a driver is popular, eliminating the need to navigate local roads yourself. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, there is a parking area on the premises for both short-term and long-term parking.

Mopah Airport (MKQ) in the city of Merauke is a small regional aviation hub that primarily serves domestic flights within Indonesia. Its structure is very simple, making it convenient for passengers.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which handles both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to its compact size, navigation is intuitively clear. Check-in counters are located immediately upon entering the building, followed by the security screening area. After control, passengers enter a small waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrivals area with the baggage claim belt and exit to the city is also located in the same building.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals. All procedures take place within a single space, which significantly saves time. Passing through registration and pre-flight screening usually takes little time due to moderate passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing.

For navigation, simply follow the standard signs. Getting lost here is practically impossible. All infrastructure is within walking distance: you can walk from the check-in counters to the waiting hall in a few minutes. This makes Mopah Airport very convenient for travellers unaccustomed to the hustle of major aviation hubs.

Mopah Airport (MKQ), serving the city of Merauke, has a history closely tied to key events of the 20th century in the region. Its foundation dates back to the period before World War II, when it was built as an airfield by the Dutch colonial administration. Its strategic location at the easternmost tip of Indonesia determined its significance for decades to come.

The most significant period in the airport's history occurred during World War II. It was transformed into a vital military airbase for Allied forces, specifically for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the United States Army Air Forces. The Merauke airfield served as a key outpost for patrolling and defending the northern coast of Australia, playing a decisive role in containing Japanese forces in the southern part of New Guinea.

After the end of the war and Indonesia gaining independence, Mopah airfield began its transformation into a civilian airport. It developed gradually to meet the growing regional needs for passenger and cargo transport. One of the most important stages of modernisation was the opening of a new modern passenger terminal in 2015. This event significantly increased the airport's capacity and the level of comfort for travellers, bringing it closer to international standards.

Interesting fact: Mopah Airport holds the unofficial title of "Indonesia's easternmost commercial airport". Today, it is not just a transport hub but a vital artery linking the isolated southern region of Papua with the rest of the country, ensuring the delivery of goods, medical evacuation, and facilitating the development of tourism in this unique part of the world.

Mopah Airport (MKQ) in the city of Merauke serves as the key aerial gateway to the south of the Indonesian province of Papua. Despite its modest size, it provides passengers with a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is important to remember that this is a regional airport, so the range of amenities may be limited compared to major international hubs in Indonesia.

To satisfy hunger and buy souvenirs, there are several small cafes and eateries in the terminal where you can taste local dishes, as well as have coffee or soft drinks. Shops mainly offer essential goods and local handicraft products, which make excellent reminders of the trip. The waiting area is equipped with a sufficient number of seats. Information regarding the availability of VIP lounges is best clarified with your airline representatives, as their services may be limited.

Passengers can access Wi-Fi, although its speed and coverage may be unstable. Special stands and power outlets are provided in the waiting halls for charging electronic devices, but it is recommended to carry a portable power bank just in case. ATMs from several local banks are installed at the airport. A currency exchange point may also be available, but its operating hours and exchange rates may not be the most favourable, so it is better to take care of money exchange in advance.

To ensure the safety and health of passengers, a medical post is available within the terminal, ready to provide first aid. Travellers with small children can use the special mother and child room. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance during boarding and disembarking; it is recommended to contact the airline in advance to book this service. There are no hotels directly on the airport premises, but several accommodation options can be found in the city itself, just a few minutes' drive away. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are absent at the airport.

Mopah Airport (MKQ) is a small regional air hub, so the choice of dining establishments corresponds to its size. Although you will not find major international chains here, you will have an excellent opportunity to try authentic Indonesian cuisine before departure. Most cafes and kiosks are concentrated in the main public area (landside), before passing through security control.

Instead of formal restaurants, the airport features small eateries and cafes known in Indonesia as "warungs". They offer simple, hearty, and inexpensive dishes. This is an ideal place for a full meal, as the selection after security (airside) is typically very limited or non-existent.

The menu is based on classic Indonesian dishes. For a hearty lunch, we recommend ordering Nasi Goreng (fried rice) or Mie Goreng (fried noodles), which are prepared with chicken, seafood, or vegetables. If time is short, you can have a quick snack with local pastries (kue) or drink a cup of aromatic Indonesian coffee. Prices here are quite democratic, especially in comparison to major international airports.

Practically all food offered at the airport is Halal, complying with the country's standards. Vegetarians can ask for a meat-free dish to be prepared, such as vegetable rice. However, finding certified vegan or gluten-free options here is unlikely. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to carry snacks with them. Catering establishments usually operate according to the flight schedule, opening before the first departures and closing after the departure of the last aircraft.

To ensure your journey through Mopah Airport goes smoothly, make use of our tips. These simple recommendations will help save time, money, and stress, making the start or end of your trip to Merauke as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass pre-flight screening without rushing. If possible, check in for your flight online — this will save you time in the queue at the airline counter.

Passing Control. Security control at Mopah Airport usually proceeds faster than in major international hubs, but the rules are standard. Remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage in advance. Liquids can be carried in containers not exceeding 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. When travelling through the eastern part of Indonesia, it is worth choosing a window seat. You are very likely to see stunning views of the coast, islands, and jungles. If comfort and the ability to stand up freely are a priority, your choice is an aisle seat.

Hand Luggage. Be sure to take all valuables into the cabin: documents, money, bank cards, medicines, and portable chargers. Do not put sharp objects, flammable substances, or liquids in containers larger than 100 ml in your hand luggage. A small supply of drinking water bought after security screening and a light snack will make the flight more pleasant.

Passengers with Connections. If you have a connecting flight, clarify with the airline in advance whether your luggage will be transferred automatically. Often, when changing carriers on Indonesian domestic lines, luggage must be collected and re-registered. This is an important point for planning transfer time.

Customs Control. Upon arrival from abroad, you will need to pass customs inspection. If you have no goods to declare, proceed confidently through the "Green Channel". Please be mindful of existing restrictions on the import of tobacco and other regulated goods.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, have a snack before travelling to the airport, as prices for food and drinks in the terminal may be higher. Travelling with only hand luggage will not only save money on baggage fees but also significantly reduce time spent at the airport upon arrival.

In Case of Flight Delay. Delays happen, especially at regional airports. Remain calm and contact your airline representative for the latest information. Clarify if you are entitled to drinks or meal vouchers. To ensure the wait is not tedious, download movies to your smartphone in advance or bring a book.