Temindung Airport

Temindung Airport is not merely a former transport hub, but a true legend in the aviation history of East Kalimantan. For a long time, it served as the sole "window to the sky" for the residents of Samarinda, receiving aircraft literally in the centre of a densely populated urban district. Its unique feature was that liners, upon approaching for landing, flew just metres away from the roofs of residential houses, making every flight a breathtaking spectacle. Today, this page of history has been turned, but the memory of the "home" airport remains an important part of the local character.

Features and Historical Significance of the Airport

Although Temindung Airport no longer accepts passengers, it possesses a number of unique characteristics that have forever inscribed it into the history of Indonesian aviation. Knowing these facts will help to better understand the development of the region's transport system.

Extreme Location. The most famous feature of Temindung was its runway, surrounded by dense residential buildings. Pilots required the highest level of skill to land the aircraft without grazing the roofs of houses. This place was a magnet for aviation enthusiasts and photographers wishing to capture planes flying literally overhead. Locals joked that passengers could see what was being cooked in their kitchens.

Maximum Accessibility. Unlike most modern airports located far outside metropolises, Temindung was situated in the very heart of Samarinda. The distance to the city centre was only a couple of kilometres, allowing one to reach the terminal in mere minutes by taxi or even on foot. This provided incredible convenience for business trips and short journeys within the province.

Regional Connecting Link. Before its closure, the airport played a critically important role in connecting Samarinda with hard-to-reach areas of the island of Borneo (Kalimantan). It was from here that small propeller planes departed, delivering cargo and passengers deep into the jungles where it was impossible to travel by land. Temindung became the foundation upon which the need for the new, more powerful APT Pranoto Airport grew.

It is important to note that Temindung Airport (SRI) was permanently closed for all passenger flights in May 2018. Its functions have been fully taken over by the new Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto International Airport (AAP), located in Samarinda.

Since Temindung Airport is no longer operational, current contact details for it are unavailable. Below is information regarding the status of requested contacts:

• Official Airport Website: Unavailable, as the airport has ceased operations.
• Help Desk Phone: Phone numbers are inactive. For flight information to Samarinda, please contact the new airport (AAP).
• Airport Address: Jl. Gatot Subroto, Samarinda, Indonesia. The facility is no longer used as a passenger terminal.
• Email: Official email addresses are invalid.
• Airport Social Media: Social media accounts are not maintained.
• Lost Luggage Information: The baggage tracing service is not operating. For all questions related to lost items, one should contact the airline directly or the relevant service at the new airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: All passenger support services at Temindung Airport have been disbanded.

Important Note: Temindung Airport (SRI), located within the city limits of Samarinda, was officially closed for passenger transport in May 2018. All flights were transferred to the new Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto International Airport (APT Pranoto International Airport, IATA code: AAP), which is located approximately 25-30 km from the city centre. The information below describes ways to get to the location of the former Temindung Airport, as well as recommendations for travelling to the operating airport.

Taxis and Online Services. The most convenient way to move around Samarinda is by taxi. You can use both traditional taxis and mobile apps popular in Indonesia, such as Gojek or Grab. A trip from the city centre to the district where Temindung Airport was located takes only 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. The cost of such a trip is quite low. To reach the new AAP airport, it will take about 45–60 minutes, and the cost will be significantly higher.

Public Transport. In Samarinda, the main form of public transport is route minibuses, known as "angkot". They run on specific routes, and one could catch an angkot heading in the direction of the former airport. This option is the cheapest, but may be uncomfortable with luggage and requires knowledge of the routes. For travel to the new airport (AAP), there are special DAMRI shuttle buses that depart from the city centre. This is a more budget-friendly alternative to a taxi.

Car Rental and Parking. You can rent a car in Samarinda at several local and international rental agencies. This gives freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore the surroundings. When Temindung Airport was operational, parking was available but limited due to its location in a dense urban area. The new AAP airport features a large and modern parking zone for short-term and long-term vehicle parking.

Important Note: Temindung Airport (SRI) was permanently closed for commercial aviation in May 2018. Previously, it served as the main air gateway to the city of Samarinda, but today all flights have been transferred to the new Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto International Airport (AAP). The information below is of a historical nature.

Temindung Airport consisted of one very compact terminal that handled all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures. Its structure was as simple as possible: a small single-storey building where all functional zones were in close proximity to each other. The departure and arrival areas were actually located in one common space, separated by minimal partitions.

Thanks to its modest size, navigation through the terminal was intuitive, and getting lost was practically impossible. Check-in counters, the security checkpoint, and a small waiting hall were within a few steps of each other. Registration and screening procedures usually proceeded quickly, taking no more than 20-30 minutes, although small queues could arise during peak hours before popular flights. There was no need for transfers between terminals, as it was the only one.

Today, travellers heading to Samarinda should plan their route via the new Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto Airport (AAP), which meets modern standards and is capable of handling a significantly larger passenger flow.

Temindung Airport (SRI) opened in 1974 and for more than 40 years served as the main air gateway to the city of Samarinda, the capital of the East Kalimantan province in Indonesia. Since its founding, it played a key role in ensuring transport accessibility for the region, which was actively developing thanks to natural resource extraction. The airport was designed to service small turboprop aircraft, linking Samarinda with other cities on the island of Borneo and beyond.

The main stage of the airport's "development" was closely tied to its limitations. Located in the densely populated Sungai Pinang district, it had no opportunities for expansion. Its single runway was short, which did not allow for the reception of larger modern liners. Furthermore, the airport often suffered from flooding during the rainy season, leading to flight cancellations and schedule disruptions. These problems became the main stimulus for the construction of a new airport.

The most significant event in Temindung's history was its closure. After years of discussions and construction, on 24 May 2018, the airport officially ceased operations. All flights were transferred to the new, modern Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto International Airport (AAP), located outside the city. This event marked the end of an entire era in the aviation history of Samarinda.

One of the most interesting and even extreme facts related to Temindung Airport is its runway. It ran in close proximity to residential houses, and planes on approach passed literally a few metres above the roofs. This thrilling and simultaneously dangerous manoeuvre became the airport's calling card and forever remained in the memories of both local residents and pilots flying to Samarinda.

It is important to note that Temindung Airport (SRI) was fully closed for commercial passenger transport in May 2018. All its operations were transferred to the new, more modern international airport — Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto (APT Pranoto International Airport) with IATA code: AAP. Therefore, when planning a trip to Samarinda, one should focus specifically on the new airport.

The new APT Pranoto Airport (AAP) is built taking into account modern requirements for passenger comfort and safety. Although the specific set of services may change, in a terminal of this level, you can count on a standard range of amenities. Usually, this includes spacious waiting lounges, several cafes and eateries where you can have a snack before departure, as well as shops with souvenirs and essential goods. Additionally, ATMs, information desks, and Wi-Fi access are provided for the convenience of travellers.

Passengers with children and people with reduced mobility are also provided with necessary conditions, such as mother and child rooms, ramps, and specially equipped restrooms. When planning your journey, it is recommended to check the current list of available services in advance on the official website or information resources of APT Pranoto Airport (AAP), as it serves as the city's operating air gateway.

It is important to note that Temindung Airport (SRI) was permanently closed in 2018 and no longer services passenger flights. All aviation activity was transferred to the new Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto International Airport (AAP), which is now the main air gateway of Samarinda. Accordingly, there are no operating cafes or restaurants in the old Temindung airport building today.

Travellers arriving in Samarinda or departing from it should look to the infrastructure of the new Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto Airport (AAP). As in most modern airport terminals in Indonesia, a selection of dining establishments for every taste and budget is presented here. Passengers can find:

• Cafes and Coffee Shops: An excellent option for a quick snack. Here you can order coffee, tea, fresh pastries, sandwiches, and light bites. Such establishments are usually located both in the public area and in the departure zone after passport control.
• Local Cuisine Restaurants: To get acquainted with the region's gastronomy before departure, it is worth visiting one of the restaurants offering traditional Indonesian dishes. This is a wonderful opportunity to have a full lunch or dinner.
• Fast Food Outlets: For those limited on time, establishments of well-known fast-food chains typically operate at the airport.

Although the specific list of establishments and their menus may change, most Indonesian airports place great emphasis on Halal food options. Information regarding vegetarian or gluten-free options is best verified directly on site. We recommend checking the current list of restaurants and cafes on the official website of Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto Airport (AAP) closer to the date of your trip.

Important Note: Temindung Airport was closed for passenger transport in 2018. All flights are now serviced by the new APT Pranoto International Airport (IATA code: AAP), located approximately 30 km from the centre of Samarinda. The tips below are relevant for travellers using the new airport.

Arrival Time at the Airport. For domestic flights within Indonesia, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, allow at least 3 hours. Consider that the journey to the new airport from the city may take time, especially during peak hours.

Check-in and Security Control. Many airlines operating flights from Samarinda offer online check-in. This is an excellent way to save time. If you are travelling only with hand luggage, you can proceed directly to security screening. Security procedures are standard, but be prepared that you may be asked to switch on electronic devices.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. If your flight takes place during daylight hours, choose a window seat. During takeoff and landing in Samarinda, stunning views of the equatorial rainforests and the Mahakam River open up. For greater comfort and the ability to quickly leave the cabin after landing, an aisle seat is suitable.

Hand Luggage. Standard international rules apply here as well: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag; no sharp objects. Please note that bringing durian on board the aircraft is often prohibited due to its strong odour, even if it is hermetically sealed.

Passengers with Connections. If you have a connecting flight, clarify when purchasing the ticket whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. APT Pranoto Airport has one terminal, which simplifies transfers, but always allow extra time between flights in case of unforeseen delays.

Customs Control. Upon entering the country, it is necessary to complete a customs declaration. The import and export of local currency are restricted. There are strict limits on the import of alcohol and tobacco. The import of narcotics is categorically prohibited and carries the most severe penalties.

Saving Time and Money. To get to or from the airport, use official taxi services or transport apps popular in Indonesia (such as Grab or Gojek) — this is often more economical than negotiating with private drivers. Book flight tickets in advance, especially during national holidays when prices rise sharply.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a flight delay, contact your airline's counter for information. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses if you plan to claim compensation.