Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Airport serves Palembang, Indonesia’s capital of South Sumatra. Opened in 2015, it replaced the older airport to handle growing air traffic. The modern terminal includes shops and basic dining options for travelers. It connects Palembang to major cities like Jakarta and Bandung via domestic flights. Located about 25 kilometers from downtown, the airport is a key gateway for visitors exploring local culture or nearby natural sites such as Musi River cruises. Its layout prioritizes efficiency with clear signage and limited crowds during peak hours.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) £1 ≈ IDR 24,141.20 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in urban areas of Indonesia, particularly in larger cities. Credit cards and mobile payment apps like GoPay and OVO are widely accepted in many establishments.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Indonesia. A 5-10% tip is common in restaurants, and taxi drivers may expect small tips for good service. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not commonly seen in Indonesia. Alcohol is consumed mainly in licensed establishments such as bars, restaurants, and hotels. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public spaces, including restaurants, shopping centres, and public transport. |
| Independence Day (17 August) |
A national holiday with celebrations and ceremonies |
|---|---|
| Nyepi (March/April) |
The Balinese Day of Silence, celebrated with unique rituals and festivities |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | GoJek, Grab |
| Other: | Indonesia is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including beaches, volcanoes, and jungles. It is a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. |
Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Airport is located about 15 km north of Balikpapan’s city center. It features one terminal with clearly designated domestic and international sections, offering passengers a variety of services such as restaurants, shops and lounges. The airport has grown rapidly to accommodate increasing passenger volumes resulting from Balikpapan's economic development and tourism growth.
The airport is praised for its clean and functional design, but some travelers mention limited seating especially during busy times and that some dining options tend to be on the pricier side. English proficiency among staff can be inconsistent: while major service points have English speakers, it is helpful for international visitors to prepare with basic Indonesian phrases or translation apps.
Transportation from the airport includes taxis, ride-sharing and shuttle buses. Traffic congestion is a frequent challenge during peak hours, so travelers should allocate extra time especially when heading to or from the city. Despite minor drawbacks, the airport offers good connectivity and a gateway to exploring beautiful natural landmarks nearby, including beaches and rainforests.
The surrounding region boasts many exciting attractions such as Melawai Beach and Kemala Beach, perfect for relaxing after flights. Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of access to nearby rainforests and wildlife tours, making this airport a solid starting point for Borneo adventures.
Located in the international terminal, the Blue Sky Lounge offers comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and flight information displays. It is accessible to first- and business-class passengers, and lounge members, providing a peaceful environment away from the bustling terminal.
This premium lounge caters to Garuda Indonesia’s business and first-class passengers, featuring snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a quiet atmosphere. Located in the international departure area, it provides a relaxing space before flights.
Most travelers prefer accommodations in Balikpapan’s city center, where a diverse selection of hotels caters to various budgets and styles. Proximity to the airport is convenient but options nearby are more limited and typically suited for short stays or layovers.
To Balikpapan City Center:
Approximately 15 km from the airport, Balikpapan city centre is accessible by airport shuttle buses running regularly with fares around IDR 20,000 – 35,000 (£0.83 – 1.45). Taxis and ride-hailing services are plentiful but fares can vary, so negotiating upfront or using metered taxis is recommended. Travel time depends on traffic but generally takes 30-45 minutes.
To Samarinda:
Samarinda can be reached from Balikpapan by bus or car, with trips taking about 3-4 hours. Visitors usually transfer via city transport. Private transfers or hire cars provide more flexible options.
To Bontang:
Bontang is accessible by road from Balikpapan, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Public transport options are limited, so hiring a car or arranging private transport is advised.
+3
+2
+3
+2
+1
