Juwata International Airport

Juwata International Airport (TRK) is not merely an air hub, but the main gateway to North Kalimantan, an island alluring with its natural wealth. Located on Tarakan Island, it serves as a starting point for journeys deep into the jungles of Borneo and to exotic islands. Despite its modest size, the airport plays a key role in the transport system of Indonesia, connecting this remote region with the country's major cities. Its history is closely intertwined with events of the past, and today it is an important node for both civil and military aviation.

Although the airport was officially stripped of its international status in 2024 and temporarily suspended international flights, it remains modern and convenient for passengers. Juwata Airport shares its facilities with a military airbase, highlighting its strategic importance to the region. For the convenience of travellers, everything necessary is available here: from cafés serving local cuisine to shops where you can purchase souvenirs. Thanks to its compact size, navigating the terminal is effortless, and its proximity to the centre of Tarakan allows for a quick and trouble-free journey to your hotel or to start exploring the city.

Below you will find contact information for Juwata International Airport (TRK). Please note that details may change, and it is recommended to visit the official website for the most up-to-date information.

• Official Website: Generally, current information can be found on the airport operator's official portal: juwata.ap1.co.id.
• Information Desk Phone: For information regarding flights and airport services, you may call: +62 551 21131.
• Airport Address: Jl. P. Aji Iskandar, Karang Anyar Pantai, Kota Tarakan, North Kalimantan, Indonesia.
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the address: humas.juwata@ap1.co.id.
• Social Media: News and updates can be followed on the airport's official Instagram page: @juwataairport.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative directly. Airport staff do not handle luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For on-site assistance, please approach the information desk in the airport terminal or use the main information phone number.

Getting to Juwata International Airport (TRK) from the city of Tarakan is quite simple, as it is located very close to the centre. Travellers can choose from several convenient methods depending on their budget, time, and preferences.

Taxis and Online Services are the most popular and convenient option. The journey from the city centre to the airport usually takes no more than 10–20 minutes. The cost of a trip via taxi or apps like Grab is quite affordable. This is the ideal choice for those travelling with luggage or who value comfort. It is recommended to use official taxi services or clarify the fare in advance to avoid misunderstandings.

Regarding public transport, route minibuses known as "angkot" operate in the city. While this is the most budget-friendly way to travel, it may not be very convenient for tourists with a lot of luggage, and routes and schedules can be unpredictable. This option is more suitable for experienced travellers wishing to immerse themselves in local life.

Car or Motorcycle Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to explore not only the city but also its surroundings on the island of Borneo. Many companies offer rental services, and you can pick up or drop off the vehicle directly at the airport. Juwata Airport provides parking where you can leave your vehicle for both short and long periods, making this method even more convenient.

Juwata International Airport (TRK) in Tarakan is a modern and compact aviation hub with one main passenger terminal. This structure serves both domestic flights within Indonesia and international routes, making navigation as simple and convenient as possible for passengers.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Generally, the departure zone is located on the upper level, while the arrival zone is on the lower level. Thanks to a thoughtful layout, all key points—check-in counters, security checkpoints, boarding gates, and baggage claim areas—are within walking distance of each other. Since there is only one terminal, passengers do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings.

The Departure Zone includes airline check-in counters, after which passengers proceed to the security screening area. Procedures here are generally organised efficiently and do not take much time compared to major international hubs. After screening, travellers enter the sterile area with waiting lounges and boarding gates. The Arrival Zone consists of the baggage claim hall and customs control for international passengers.

For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure to complete check-in and security. For international flights, it is better to allow about 3 hours. Overall, navigating Juwata Airport presents no difficulties thanks to clear signage in Indonesian and English, as well as the compact dimensions of the terminal itself, making it comfortable even for first-time visitors.

The history of Juwata International Airport (TRK) is closely intertwined with the history of the city of Tarakan and the entire oil industry of the region. Its story began in the colonial era when the Dutch oil company Bataafsche Petroleum Maatschappij (BPM) built a runway here for its operations. This modest airfield became the predecessor of the modern aviation hub.

The airport played a key role during World War II. Due to its strategic location and proximity to oil fields, the airfield in Tarakan became the scene of fierce battles during the Pacific Campaign. It changed hands multiple times and was a vital military objective, leaving a deep mark on its history.

After Indonesia gained independence, the airport was transferred to civil authorities and began to develop as an important transport hub for the North Kalimantan province. In subsequent decades, it was gradually modernised to meet the region's growing needs for passenger and cargo transport.

The most significant transformation of the airport occurred in the 21st century. As part of a massive reconstruction, a new modern terminal was built and grandly opened in 2016, and the runway was extended. These improvements allowed Juwata Airport to accommodate larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 737, and gain international status, establishing connections with neighbouring Malaysia. Today, it is a modern and comfortable airport serving as the main aerial gateway to Tarakan and a vital link in the transport system of Borneo.

Juwata International Airport (TRK) offers passengers all necessary amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, you will find a basic range of services here meeting modern standards.

Several cafés and eateries are located within the terminal where you can taste local cuisine or have a cup of coffee before departure. For those wishing to buy souvenirs or travel goods, small shops operate, offering memorable gifts from Indonesia as well as daily essentials.

For comfortable waiting, the airport provides general lounges with ample seating. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can utilise the VIP lounges, which offer a more private atmosphere and additional snacks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special stations with power outlets are equipped for charging gadgets.

Financial matters are easily resolved at Juwata Airport: ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service. In case of need, passengers can visit the medical post for first aid.

For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is provided where you can care for your baby in a quiet environment. The airport is also equipped for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, special restrooms, and staff are ready to provide a wheelchair and assistance in moving around the terminal.

Although there are no hotels directly inside the airport building, numerous accommodation options are located in the immediate vicinity in the city of Tarakan. For business travellers, basic business services such as internet access and workspaces may be available in the VIP lounges.

At Juwata International Airport (TRK), the choice of dining establishments is not vast, but sufficient for a snack before departure. The majority of cafés and restaurants are concentrated in the public area of the terminal (landside), before security control. We strongly recommend eating here, as the selection in the departure zone (airside) is typically limited to a small kiosk with snacks and drinks.

For a full lunch or dinner, local cafés offering Indonesian cuisine are best. Here you can order popular hits such as Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Mie Goreng (fried noodles), or various types of Soto (traditional soup). This is a wonderful opportunity to taste authentic food at a reasonable price before flying out of Tarakan. Such establishments are perfect for a leisurely wait for your flight.

If you are short on time and need a quick snack, look out for coffee shops. You can often find fresh pastries there, such as fragrant coffee buns, which have become a popular snack in airports across Indonesia. This is an ideal option to grab a coffee and something light to take away.

Since Indonesia is a Muslim-majority country, practically all food at the airport is Halal. Finding vegetarian dishes is also possible—look for vegetable side dishes, stir-fried vegetables (cap cay), or simply rice with vegetables on the menu, though it is better to clarify ingredients with staff in advance. Specialised vegan or gluten-free dishes may be difficult to find, so passengers with strict dietary restrictions should arrange for food beforehand.

The average bill for a full hot meal with a drink varies between 50,000 and 100,000 Indonesian Rupiah, which is quite democratic for an airport. The opening hours of most establishments are tied to the flight schedule: they open with the first morning departures and close after the last evening plane departs.

When planning a departure from Juwata Airport, always allow sufficient time. For domestic flights within Indonesia, it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure, and for international flights—3 hours. This will allow you to complete all pre-flight formalities calmly and without haste, even if there are queues at the airport.

To speed up the process, use online check-in if your airline provides this service. This will allow you to avoid queues at check-in counters. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready at Tarakan airport. Security procedures are standard, but be prepared to present electronic devices and liquids in your hand luggage for inspection.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your priorities. Window seats (A, F) will offer beautiful views of the islands of Kalimantan during take-off and landing. Aisle seats (C, D) provide more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours.

Remember the restrictions on carrying liquids in hand luggage: all must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin. It is recommended to check baggage rules on your airline's website in advance.

Passengers with connecting flights should clarify in advance whether their luggage will be transferred automatically or if it needs to be collected and re-checked. Inside the airport, follow signs for "Transit" or "Flight Connections". If you have enough time between flights, you can make use of the cafés and shops in the terminal.

When passing through customs control, be prepared to present your passport and a completed customs declaration if required. Honestly declare all goods exceeding duty-free limits to avoid potential fines. Familiarise yourself with Indonesia's customs regulations in advance to know what can be brought into the country.

To save time and money, check in for your flight online and save your boarding pass on your phone. Prices for food and drinks at airports are usually higher, so you can bring a light snack with you. Also, take an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security control.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately for current information. Keep all receipts for food and drinks if the airline promises compensation. Monitor the departure boards for information and do not leave the waiting area so as not to miss important announcements.