Timika Airport

Mozes Kilangin Airport, serving the city of Tembagapura, is not merely an air gateway but a strategically important transport hub in the very heart of the Indonesian province of Papua. Located in the Mimika Regency, it serves as a vital artery connecting this remote mountainous region with the rest of Indonesia and the world. Its key role lies in serving not only local residents and tourists but also the world's largest gold mine, Grasberg, for which the airport was originally built. The air harbour shares its territory with a military airbase, which further underscores its strategic significance for the country.

Despite its relatively small size, Mozes Kilangin Airport possesses everything necessary to ensure passenger comfort and safety. It is equipped with a runway nearly 2,400 metres long and modern navigation systems capable of accommodating various types of aircraft. Initially, the airport held international status, but due to a lack of regular overseas flights, it was redesignated as domestic. Today, regular flights operate from here to major Indonesian cities such as Jakarta, Makassar, and Jayapura, making it the starting point for exploring the unique nature and culture of Papua.

Below is the contact information for Mozes Kilangin International Airport (TIM), serving the city of Tembagapura and its surrounding areas.

• Official Website: You can find up-to-date information on flights and services on the official website of the airport operator, PT Angkasa Pura I: tim.ap1.co.id
• Information Desk Phone: For inquiries, you can call +62 901 3126888. A unified contact centre 172 is also available (for calls within Indonesia).
• Airport Address: Jalan C. Heatubun, Kwamki, Kecamatan Mimika Baru, Kabupaten Mimika, Papua 99971, Indonesia.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the address: cc.tim@ap1.co.id
• Social Media: The airport maintains pages on social networks, for example on Instagram, where you can follow news: @mozeskilanginairport.
• Lost and Found: In case of loss or damage to luggage, it is recommended to first contact your airline's representative at the airport. If you have lost items within the terminal building, please contact the information desk or airport security.
• Customer Support Contacts: For general support and answers to questions, you may use the airport's main telephone number and email address.

There are several ways to get to Timika Airport (Mozes Kilangin International Airport, TIM), which serves the city of Timika and is the main air gateway for travel to Tembagapura. The choice of transport depends on your budget, level of comfort, and readiness for local nuances.

Taxi and Private Transfer

This is the most popular and convenient way to reach the airport from the city of Timika. The journey from central Timika to the terminal takes approximately 15–25 minutes. The estimated cost of the trip is 100,000 – 150,000 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). It is strongly recommended to agree on the price in advance, as not all cars are equipped with meters. You can also book a transfer through your hotel — this is a reliable, albeit more expensive, option.

Car Rental

For those who value independence, car rental services are available in Timika. Given the specific road conditions in the region, many tourists prefer to rent a car with a driver. This not only eliminates the need to navigate local traffic rules but also ensures greater safety. The cost of renting a car with a driver starts from approximately 700,000 IDR per day. This option is particularly convenient if you plan trips around the surrounding areas before or after your flight.

Public Transport

The public transport system in the conventional sense (regular city buses, metro, or trains) is poorly developed in Timika. The basis of local transport consists of route minibuses, known in Indonesia as "angkot" or "bemo". Although this is a very cheap way to travel, it can be inconvenient for tourists with luggage due to overcrowding and the lack of a clear schedule. This option is more suitable for experienced and unpretentious travellers.

Airport Parking

If you arrive at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking is at your service. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. The cost of services is moderate, but it is better to check current rates on-site. The parking area is guarded, allowing you to leave the car for the duration of your absence.

Timika Airport (TIM), also known as Mozes Kilangin Airport, is a compact and functional aviation hub. Its structure is simple and intuitive for passengers, as all operations are concentrated in one main terminal. This building serves both domestic departures and arrivals, eliminating the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is logical and straightforward. Upon entry, passengers find themselves in the general area where airline check-in counters are located. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, you proceed to the security screening area, followed by the departure lounge. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated for passenger convenience. The arrival hall contains the baggage claim belt and the exit to the city. Thanks to the airport's small size, navigation causes no difficulties — simply follow the signs.

Check-in and screening procedures at Timika Airport usually proceed quite quickly compared to major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance — approximately 1.5–2 hours before your flight's departure. This time is sufficient to complete all formalities without haste, even in the event of unforeseen delays.

The main advice for navigation is to orient yourself by the signs and information boards. Since all key zones — from check-in counters to boarding gates — are located within a single building and at a short distance from each other, it is practically impossible to get lost here. The compactness of the airport is its main advantage, making travel through Timika as simple and comfortable as possible.

The history of Timika Airport, officially known as Mozes Kilangin Airport (TIM), is inextricably linked to the development of one of the world's largest gold and copper deposits. The airport was built in the 1970s by the American mining company Freeport-McMoRan. Initially, it functioned as a private airstrip intended exclusively to serve the needs of the giant Grasberg mine, located in the remote mountains of Indonesia. Its main task was the delivery of personnel, equipment, and vital cargo to this isolated region.

As the nearby city of Tembagapura and the administrative centre of Timika grew and developed, an acute need for public air transport arose. Gradually, the airport began to accept commercial flights, which became a key stage in its development. This transformed it from a closed departmental facility into the region's main air gateway, linking it with the rest of the archipelago. This step played a decisive role in integrating the local economy and ensuring population mobility.

With the increase in passenger flow and cargo turnover, the airport underwent several stages of modernisation. A significant milestone was the construction and opening of a new modern passenger terminal in 2008. This large-scale reconstruction significantly increased capacity, improved the level of comfort for passengers, and enabled the reception of larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 737.

The uniqueness of Timika Airport lies in its dual role. On one hand, it is a strategic logistics hub for one of the planet's most significant industrial sites. On the other, it is a vital transport artery for thousands of local residents. One of the airport's main achievements can be considered the provision of stable and safe air transport in the extremely difficult meteorological and geographical conditions of the highlands. Interestingly, the airport is named after Mozes Kilangin — an iconic figure and one of the leaders of the local population, highlighting its importance to the entire region.

Timika Airport (TIM) offers passengers a set of essential services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the terminal, you will find several small cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite before your flight, enjoying local cuisine or simply having a cup of coffee. Shops offering souvenirs, press, and necessities are also available.

General waiting lounges are equipped for rest before departure. Passengers who value extra comfort can check on-site regarding access to the VIP lounge. Wi-Fi is usually available in the main terminal zones, and charging stations for electronic devices are provided for those who need to recharge gadgets.

ATMs for cash withdrawals are located within the airport. If you need to exchange currency, it is better to verify the availability and opening hours of the exchange point in advance. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical point operates at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

For travellers with children, a mother and child room is provided, where you can take care of your little one in a quiet environment. The airport is also equipped with basic facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms to ensure an accessible environment.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, several accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Timika. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are absent at the airport, so for business meetings, it is recommended to use the infrastructure of city hotels.

Timika Airport (TIM), also known as Mozes Kilangin International Airport, offers passengers a basic range of catering services consistent with its regional status. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants and cafes here as in major international hubs. The main food outlets are located in the public area before security control (landside), so it is better to have a snack before checking in for your flight.

The menu in local eateries is generally simple and focused on popular Indonesian dishes. Here you can order Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Mie Goreng (fried noodles), as well as various chicken or fish dishes. This is an excellent opportunity to try authentic local food. Packaged snacks, pastries, and soft drinks are available for a quick bite. Full restaurant service is absent at the airport, but the existing cafes are quite suitable for a hearty meal before departure.

Passengers with specific dietary requirements should be prepared for limited choices. Specialised vegan or gluten-free menus are unlikely to be found here. However, you can ask for a dish to be prepared without meat, for example, vegetarian Nasi Goreng. Given that Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, most dishes comply with Halal standards, but it is best to verify on-site for certainty. Prices at the airport are higher than in the city but remain moderate.

The opening hours of catering establishments are directly linked to the flight schedule — they are open during departure and arrival times. If you have strict dietary restrictions or desire a more varied selection, it is strongly recommended to eat in the city of Timika before travelling to the airport or to bring food with you.

Planning a trip through Timika Airport (Mozes Kilangin International Airport) requires some preparation, especially considering its location in a unique region of Indonesia. By following these tips, you can make your journey more comfortable and predictable.

Arrival and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. Despite the airport not being as large as capital hubs, queues for check-in and security screening can arise unexpectedly. If your airline offers online check-in, take advantage of this opportunity to save time. Keep your passport and printed or electronic ticket ready.

Luggage and Seat Selection: Standard carry-on luggage rules apply here: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Electronics, especially power banks, must be carried in hand luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, note that window seats will offer you unforgettable views of the mountains and jungles of Papua during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats provide more convenience if you need to stand up during the flight.

Customs and Internal Control: For domestic flights within Indonesia, customs control as such is absent, however, security screening is conducted very thoroughly. Be prepared for luggage checks. If you are flying to or from Tembagapura, your special entry permits for this zone may be checked if they are required for the purpose of your trip.

Passengers with Connections: If you have a connecting flight, for example, in Jakarta or Denpasar, clarify at check-in in Timika whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to the final destination. Check the terminal and gate for the next flight in advance to avoid rushing during the transfer.

Economy and Unforeseen Situations: Prices for food and drinks at the airport may be higher than average, so it makes sense to bring a light snack with you. Remember that the weather in the mountainous area can be unpredictable and cause flight delays. In this case, have a book or charged gadgets with you. In the event of a delay, contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and possible compensation options (water, meals).