Lahat (Pagar Alam)

Lahat Airport (Pagar Alam), officially known as Atung Bungsu Airport, is the aerial gateway to the captivating world of South Sumatra. Located near the city of Pagar Alam, it serves as a starting point for travellers eager to explore the majestic Mount Dempo, emerald tea plantations, and the region's mysterious megalithic monuments. This small yet modern airport provides access to one of the most picturesque and pristine corners of Indonesia, making the journey here significantly faster and more comfortable.

The main advantage of Lahat Airport is its strategic location. It significantly reduces travel time to Pagar Alam, which was previously accessible mainly via a long drive from Palembang. The airport features a compact and modern terminal where all procedures are conducted quickly and without unnecessary fuss, which is particularly appreciated by tourists. Despite its modest size, it is a key element in the development of tourism in the region, offering flights to major transport hubs and opening up the beauties of the "Land of Besumah" to travellers.

Finding accurate and centralised contact information for small regional airports like Lahat (Pagar Alam) can be challenging. Primary interaction with passengers is generally handled by the airlines. Below are the most current details and recommendations.

• Official Website: Currently, Atung Bungsu Airport (the official name of Lahat Airport) does not have its own dedicated website. General information regarding aviation regulations in Indonesia can be found on the Directorate General of Civil Aviation portal.
• Help Desk Phone: A direct public telephone number for airport inquiries is not published. To clarify flight status, departure, or arrival times, it is recommended to contact your airline directly.
• Airport Address: Atung Bungsu Airport (PXA), Desa Pagar Agung, Kecamatan Lahat, Kabupaten Lahat, South Sumatra, Indonesia.
• Email: An official email address for communicating with the airport administration is not provided for general use.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official social media pages. Some updates may appear on the pages of airlines operating flights to Pagar Alam.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should immediately contact the representative or the Lost & Found counter of your airline at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all issues related to tickets, flight check-in, or special assistance, please contact the customer support service of the airline you are flying with.

Getting to Lahat Airport (Pagar Alam) from the city of Pagar Alam is quite simple, as it is located near the centre. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose from several convenient methods. The journey generally allows you to plan your route to departure without haste.

Taxi and Private Transfer are the most comfortable and fastest ways to reach the airport. Given the distance, the trip from the city centre will take approximately 40–60 minutes depending on traffic conditions. You can book a car through local taxi services or use ride-hailing apps like Grab (popular in Indonesia), although it is better to check their availability in small towns in advance. Many hotels also offer transfer arrangements for their guests, which is a reliable option, especially if you have an early flight. This is the most predictable, albeit more expensive, option.

Public Transport in Pagar Alam is mainly represented by route minibuses known as "angkot" or "opelet". This is the most budget-friendly way to travel, but it may not be the most convenient if you are travelling with large luggage. There may not be a direct route to the terminal, and you might have to walk part of the way. This option is more suitable for experienced travellers wishing to save money and immerse themselves in local life. There are no trains or metro services in the city.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those who value independence and plan to explore the surroundings of Pagar Alam. Several local rental agencies can be found in the city. By renting a car, you can drive to the airport at any time convenient for you and possibly arrange to return the vehicle directly at the airport. This is particularly convenient if your journey through the region begins or ends in Pagar Alam.

If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented car, parking facilities are at your service. Lahat Airport (Pagar Alam) has a parking area where you can leave your vehicle for both short and long terms. Parking fees are generally low, making this option quite accessible for travellers.

Atung Bungsu Airport (PXA), serving the city of Pagar Alam and its surroundings in Indonesia, is a small and modern aviation hub. Its key feature is a single passenger terminal that handles all domestic flights. Thanks to its compact size, navigating here is very easy, making the journey as comfortable as possible and eliminating the need to rush.

The terminal structure is intuitive. The departure and arrival zones are located in the same building, which eliminates the need for long walks. Immediately after entering the building, you will see the check-in counters, followed by the security screening area. After passing control, passengers enter a small but cosy waiting hall before boarding. Navigation is incredibly simple, and all key points are within walking distance of each other.

The departure area includes a general waiting hall with sufficient seating. Given the size of the airport, there is not a wide variety of shops or restaurants, but basic amenities such as restrooms and a small kiosk with drinks and snacks are usually available. The arrival area is equally compact and consists of a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city, where taxis and meet-and-greet parties await passengers.

One of the main advantages of Pagar Alam Airport is the speed of completing all formalities. Flight check-in and security screening rarely take much time due to the low passenger volume. Typically, arriving at the airport 1–1.5 hours before a domestic flight is more than sufficient. This allows you to avoid the stress and long waits characteristic of major aviation hubs.

Thus, travellers need not worry about complex navigation or long transfers between terminals. The airport in Pagar Alam is designed for maximum convenience and the quick dispatch and reception of passengers, making it an excellent starting point for exploring this picturesque region of Sumatra.

Lahat Airport (Pagar Alam) (PXA), officially known as Atung Bungsu Airport, is a relatively young but strategically important air harbour for the city of Pagar Alam and the surrounding mountainous region on the island of Sumatra. Its establishment was a key event in the development of tourism and the economy of this picturesque part of Indonesia.

Construction of the airport began in 2007 on the initiative of local authorities to improve transport accessibility in the region. The official opening took place on 30 March 2013. Initially, it mainly served small aircraft and so-called "pioneer" flights, connecting the isolated mountainous area with major cities.

A key stage in the airport's development was the commencement of commercial flights. In 2016, the airline TransNusa launched flights connecting Pagar Alam with the country's capital, which was a true breakthrough. To accommodate larger turboprop aircraft, such as the ATR 72 used by Wings Air and Citilink, modernisation works were carried out. Specifically, the runway was extended in stages, significantly expanding the airport's capabilities.

The main achievement of Atung Bungsu Airport is the radical reduction in travel time. While a trip from Palembang, the provincial capital, used to take 7-8 hours by car, one can now fly there in just an hour. This has made Pagar Alam, with its tea plantations, Mount Dempo, and ancient megalithic monuments, much more accessible to tourists.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the airport is named after Atung Bungsu, a character from local folklore. Furthermore, its location in the highlands surrounded by mountains and tea fields makes take-offs and landings here particularly scenic. Travellers receive unforgettable impressions as soon as they step off the aircraft ramp.

Atung Bungsu Airport (PXA), serving the city of Pagar Alam, is a small regional air hub that provides passengers with a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is important to understand that the airport's infrastructure corresponds to its size, so you will not find the wide variety of amenities characteristic of international hubs in Indonesia.

For passenger dining, the terminal has several small cafes and kiosks where you can buy light snacks, soft drinks, and coffee. The selection of hot meals may be limited. Souvenir stalls offering local crafts and commemorative items may also be operating. The main waiting areas are equipped with seating for all passengers. Information regarding the availability of VIP lounges is best clarified on-site, as they may be absent in small airports.

Free Wi-Fi may be available at the airport, although its speed and stability can vary. Power outlets and special stands are provided in the waiting halls for charging electronic devices. There are typically no specialised bank branches or currency exchange points at the airport, so it is recommended to arrange for cash in advance at one of the city's banks.

Basic facilities are provided for passengers with special needs, including ramps and accessible toilets. If you require special assistance, such as a wheelchair, you must notify your airline in advance. The airport also usually has a mother and child room and a first aid point. There are no hotels or business centres directly on the airport grounds; the nearest accommodation options are located in the city of Pagar Alam itself.

Atung Bungsu Airport (PXA), serving the city of Pagar Alam, is a small regional air hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest. Nevertheless, passengers can find a few options to have a snack before departure, especially if looking to experience simple local flavours.

In the airport's single terminal, typically before the security checkpoint (landside), there are several small kiosks or Indonesian-style cafes (warung). Their assortment usually includes packaged snacks such as chips (keripik), biscuits, as well as soft drinks, tea, and, of course, local coffee. This is an excellent option for a quick bite. For a more substantial but simple lunch, you can order instant noodles, which are popular in Indonesia, or if lucky, find nasi goreng (fried rice).

Regarding special dietary needs, choices will be extremely limited. However, most food products in the region are Halal by default. Vegetarians may find it difficult to find a ready-made dish without meat, other than simple snacks. Travellers with stricter requirements (vegan, gluten-free) are strongly advised to bring food with them. Prices at the airport are very affordable and do not differ significantly from those in the city. Establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Pagar Alam city goes smoothly, take advantage of these tips. Although it is a small regional airport, it is better to arrive here at least 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without haste, especially during peak seasons.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to proceed immediately to the baggage drop counter or security screening if you are travelling light. Security screening procedures in small airports in Indonesia usually proceed faster, but be prepared to present your boarding pass and ID, as well as remove electronics and liquids from your carry-on luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, especially on flights from Pagar Alam, prefer a window seat. You may be treated to stunning views of volcanic landscapes and lush green valleys of South Sumatra. This is a wonderful opportunity to take impressive photos as a memento of your trip.

Standard carry-on luggage rules apply here as well. Remember the restriction on liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a transparent bag. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, flammable substances, and other dangerous items in the cabin. Always keep valuables, documents, and medicines with you in your carry-on luggage.

If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transit airport. Since Pagar Alam Airport mainly serves domestic flights, customs control is not conducted here. Only passengers arriving in the country on international flights at major airports, such as Jakarta or Denpasar, pass through it.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and your rights. Find out if the carrier provides meals or accommodation. The airport is small, so the choice of entertainment may be limited. Keep a book, a charged power bank, and some cash for buying drinks or snacks with you.