Overview
Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport is the primary airport serving the city of Balikpapan, in the East Kalimantan province of Indonesia. The airport is named after Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman who was a ruler of Balikpapan in the early 19th century.
The airport was initially built by the Dutch colonial government in 1935 as a small airfield. It was later expanded during the Japanese occupation in World War II and again in the 1980s to accommodate larger aircraft. Today, it has a single runway that is 2,500 meters long and can handle up to 6 million passengers annually.
The airport has four main terminals, including a domestic terminal, an international terminal, a VIP terminal, and a cargo terminal. The domestic terminal handles flights to and from various Indonesian destinations, while the international terminal serves flights to and from other countries in Asia and the Middle East.
Passengers can enjoy a range of facilities at the airport, including restaurants, cafes, shops, ATMs, currency exchange booths, and a duty-free store. The airport also offers several parking areas, car rental services, and taxi services for travelers.
Overall, Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport is a modern and well-equipped airport that provides convenient access to Balikpapan and other destinations in East Kalimantan. With its range of facilities and services, it is a popular gateway for both business and leisure travelers visiting the region.
Terminals at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport
Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport (BPN) is located in Balikpapan, a city in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. The airport has one main terminal building with two levels – the first level is for arrivals and the second level is for departures.
The terminal building was recently renovated in 2014 to provide a modern and comfortable experience for passengers. It features a variety of shops, restaurants, and lounges for passengers to enjoy before their flight. There are also several facilities available, such as prayer rooms, currency exchange counters, and luggage storage areas.
The terminal’s check-in counters are located on the second level, where passengers can check-in for their flights and drop off their luggage. The airport has several airlines operating from its terminal, including Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Citilink, and AirAsia.
The departure gates are located on the second level as well, with several shops and restaurants available for passengers to browse through before boarding their flight. The terminal building also has several lounges available for use by passengers, including the Garuda Indonesia Executive Lounge and the Citilink Executive Lounge.
In addition to the main terminal building, Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport also has a cargo terminal for the handling of air freight. The cargo terminal is located just a short distance from the main terminal building and has several facilities available, including refrigerated storage areas and cargo handling equipment.
Overall, the terminal building at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport provides a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience for passengers with its modern amenities and facilities.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport: Sriwijaya Air, Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Citilink, Batik Air, Wings Air, Nam Air, AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, SilkAir, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Dragon.
Domestic destinations include Jakarta, Surabaya, Makassar, Banjarmasin, Balikpapan, Samarinda, Tarakan, Pontianak, Palangkaraya, Sampit, Pangkalan Bun, Berau, and others.
International destinations include Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, and others. Some routes may have seasonal changes, so it is best to check with the airlines or travel agencies for up-to-date information.
The airport also serves as a connecting hub for many other destinations in Indonesia and abroad, offering passengers a wide range of choices for their travels.
Transportation Options at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport
Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport, located in Balikpapan, Indonesia, offers a variety of transportation options for travelers. Upon arrival, visitors can choose from several modes of transportation to get to their destination.
For those who prefer a hassle-free option, there are numerous shuttle services available. These shuttles provide door-to-door service to hotels and other popular destinations in the city. The shuttles are air-conditioned and typically run every hour or so.
Those who wish to have more freedom and flexibility may want to opt for a car rental. Several car rental agencies operate directly out of the airport, making it easy and convenient for travelers to rent a car upon arrival. Renting a car gives you the autonomy to explore the area at your own pace and schedule.
Another affordable option is the shuttle bus service. These buses run frequently and connect the airport to various parts of the city. They are a great option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind sharing a ride with others.
There are no direct train lines from the airport to the city center, but passengers can take a taxi or shuttle to the nearest train stations. The closest stations are Samarinda Station and Balikpapan Station. From there, you can catch trains to various cities throughout Indonesia.
Taxis are also available outside the airport terminal. Metered taxis are available, and the fare will depend on the distance traveled. It is advisable to only use registered taxis to avoid being overcharged or scammed.
Overall, Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport offers a range of transportation options to suit the needs and preferences of all travelers. Whether you prefer a private car, shared ride, or public transportation, you’re sure to find a suitable option at this airport.
Parking Options at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport
Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport offers several parking options for travelers who wish to leave their cars while they are away. There are two types of parking areas available – the secure car parks and the open-air car park.
The secure car parks offer covered parking spaces with 24/7 security surveillance, ensuring that your vehicle is protected for the duration of your trip. The rates for secure parking start from IDR 20,000 ($1.40) per hour and go up to IDR 150,000 ($10.50) per day.
The open-air car park is another option for travelers who prefer to park their cars under the sky. Though the open-air car park offers no roof, it still provides a 24/7 security presence to ensure that the vehicle is protected. The parking rates are more affordable in the open-air car park and start from IDR 10,000 ($0.70) per hour and go up to IDR 80,000 ($5.60) per day.
Both car parks are located nearby the airport’s terminal building, so it is an easy walk to reach the airport. The payment can be made online or at the payment counters located near the parking areas. Overall, the parking options at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport are secure and reasonably priced, making it easy for travelers to park their vehicles and enjoy their trip without any worries.
Check-In Procedures at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport
The check-in process at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport offers passengers various options such as online check-in, self-service kiosks, and traditional check-in counters.
Passengers who have completed their online check-in can proceed directly to the bag drop counter or go straight to security screening. The online check-in service is available 24 hours before the scheduled departure time, up to two hours before the flight departs.
Self-service check-in kiosks are located in the terminal building of the airport for passengers who prefer to check-in themselves. Passengers can use the kiosks to print out their boarding passes, select a seat, and make changes to their booking. This option avoids the need to queue up at the check-in counters, making it a more convenient and faster process.
For passengers who prefer the traditional way of checking in, there are multiple check-in counters available in the terminal building staffed with airline agents. Passengers can approach these counters to complete their check-in process where the airline agent will issue their boarding passes, check their luggage, and answer any queries they may have.
Overall, Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport offers various check-in options for passengers, making it a hassle-free and seamless experience. The airport’s check-in procedures are designed to cater to the needs of all passengers, irrespective of their preferences.
Security Procedures and Tips at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport
At the airport, security is taken seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff. All passengers are required to undergo a security check before boarding their flight. You will be asked to place your belongings, including electronic devices and liquids, in trays for scanning.
To make the process smoother, it is recommended that you pack your carry-on bags neatly with easy access to your electronic devices and liquids. Avoid wearing clothing or accessories with metallic components as they may set off the metal detectors. Additionally, follow the liquid restrictions and only bring small amounts of liquids in 100ml containers in a clear plastic bag.
If you are unsure about anything, do not hesitate to ask the security personnel for assistance. Always allow enough time for the security check, especially during peak hours or holidays when there may be longer lines. By following these tips, you can help make the security process at the airport stress-free and efficient.
Customs and Immigration at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport
Upon arrival at the airport, passengers must present their passports and visas to the immigration officers. Non-Indonesian citizens are required to have a valid visa before entering the country. The officers will then stamp the passport and grant entry to the country.
After clearing immigration, passengers proceed to the baggage claim area to collect their luggage. All bags will go through customs inspection, and passengers should declare any dutiable items or prohibited goods.
When departing from the airport, passengers will go through the security screening process before checking in for their flight. After check-in, passengers will proceed to the immigration counters, where they will need to show their passport and boarding pass.
Once cleared by immigration, passengers can proceed to the departure gate and wait for their flight. It is essential to arrive at the airport with ample time to clear customs and immigration procedures.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines, including traditional Indonesian dishes.
- Duty-free shops selling souvenirs, cosmetics, and electronics.
- Multiple ATMs and currency exchange counters for convenient banking services.
- Baby care facilities and prayer rooms available for families and religious groups.
- Lounges for business and first-class passengers offering comfortable seating and complimentary refreshments.
- Free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport for passengers to stay connected.
- A medical center equipped to handle emergencies with trained staff ready to assist.
- Baggage storage facilities for travelers who want to explore the city without the hassle of carrying luggage.
Accessibility Services
Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport offers various facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include wheelchair assistance, accessible toilets, designated parking spaces, and dedicated check-in counters.
The airport also has trained staff to provide assistance and support, as well as special boarding procedures for those who require it.
Passengers with disabilities or mobility issues are encouraged to contact the airport in advance to arrange for any necessary accommodations.
Connecting Flights at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport: Tips and Process
If you have a connecting flight at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth transfer. First, be aware of the time between your flights. If you have a tight connection, it’s important to move quickly.
Make sure you have all necessary documents ready, such as your boarding pass and passport. Follow signs to the transfer desk or ask airport staff for directions. If you need to clear immigration or customs, budget extra time for this process.
If your connecting flight is with a different airline, find out beforehand which terminal it departs from and plan enough time to get there. In case of a delay or cancellation, keep an eye on the departure board and speak to airline staff for assistance.
Finally, if you have a long layover, take advantage of the airport’s amenities, such as restaurants, shops, and lounges. Just make sure to check the time and return to your gate in advance.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport, passengers should head to the baggage claim area located in the arrivals hall. There, they will need to locate their designated baggage carousel, which is typically indicated by flight number or airline.
Passengers should wait patiently for their luggage to appear on the carousel and only take bags that belong to them. In the event that a bag is damaged or lost during the flight, passengers are advised to report it to the airport’s baggage services desk immediately. The staff will provide a report and assist with tracking down the missing luggage.
If the bag is not found within a certain timeframe, passengers may be eligible for compensation from the airline. Additionally, if a passenger finds that their luggage is damaged upon collecting it from the carousel, they should also report it to the baggage services desk before leaving the airport.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, the airport has a well-equipped medical center with highly trained medical professionals available 24/7. The medical center is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment to handle any medical emergency that may arise.
In addition to the medical center, there are also ambulance services available at the airport to transport passengers to nearby hospitals for advanced medical care if necessary. The airport also has a dedicated emergency response team that is on standby at all times to respond to any emergency situation.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel options within or near Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations.
Here are five hotels situated within a few kilometers of the airport:
- Swiss-Belhotel Borneo Samarinda (1.5 km)
- ibis Balikpapan (3 km)
- Novotel Balikpapan (4 km)
- Aston Samarinda Hotel and Convention Center (10 km)
- Hotel Grand Kartika Samarinda (15 km)
All of these hotels offer comfortable rooms, dining options, and various amenities to cater to the needs of travelers.
Useful Tips:
– Arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time to allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.
– Utilize the airport’s free Wi-Fi to stay connected during your trip.
– If you have a long layover, take advantage of the airport’s various dining and shopping options.
– Consider purchasing lounge access for a more comfortable and relaxed experience.
– Familiarize yourself with the terminal layout beforehand to save time and avoid getting lost.
– Be aware of the airport’s prohibited items list to avoid any delays or confiscations during security screening.
– Pack portable chargers and power banks to keep your devices charged during your travels.
– Take advantage of the airport’s baggage wrapping services to secure your luggage and protect it from damage.
– Don’t forget to exchange currency before your trip to avoid unfavorable exchange rates at the airport.
Contact Information
– Airport Information Desk: +62 542 762703
– Lost and Found: +62 542 762733
– Baggage Services: +62 542 762725
– Customs: +62 542 760616
– Immigration: +62 542 762791
– Medical Services: +62 542 760708
– Police Station: +62 542 760686
– Fire Department: +62 542 760671
Other Airports Nearby and Transportation Options
There are several airports within a reasonable distance of Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport:
- Balikpapan International Airport (9.6 km) – accessible by taxi, private car, or shuttle bus
- Samarinda Temindung Airport (121 km) – accessible by taxi, private car, or local bus
- Tanjung Redeb Airport (311 km) – accessible by taxi, private car, or long-distance bus
Be sure to check flight schedules and availability at these alternative airports, as they may have different options and prices than Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport. Plan ahead for transportation to and from the airport, and consider the time and cost involved in your travel plans.