About Leo Wattimena Airport in Morotai

Leo Wattimena Airport (OTI), still widely known as Pitu Airport, serves Morotai Island in North Maluku, Indonesia. It is shared between civil flights and the Indonesian Air Force, which runs the Leo Wattimena air base on the same site.

The airfield has deep historical roots. Allied forces built it after the Battle of Morotai in the Second World War, and it became a major base for bombers in the Pacific campaign.

Location of Pitu Airport on Morotai Island

The airport lies on the southern side of Morotai, the part of the island closest to Daruba, the main town. Hotels, the harbour and most services are in and around Daruba.

Runways and Terminal at Leo Wattimena Airport

Unusually for a small island, Morotai has two long parallel runways, a legacy of its wartime role. Civil passengers use a modest terminal with basic services for domestic flights.

Airlines and Routes from Morotai

Wings Air connects Morotai with Ternate using ATR turboprops, and the flight takes well under an hour. Ternate is the main hub for onward connections across Indonesia. Services are limited, so check the latest schedule before you plan.

Getting Around from Leo Wattimena Airport

Local drivers and hotel pick-ups are the usual way into Daruba. If flights are full, fast boats and ferries between Ternate and Daruba are the alternative, though the journey is much longer.

Things to See on Morotai

Morotai is known for its Second World War sites, including relics and a small museum, and for clear water ideal for diving. Small islands off the coast, such as Dodola, have white-sand beaches that are popular for day trips by boat.

Tips for Flying via Morotai

• Flights run on limited days, so build your plans around the schedule.
• As an active air base, some areas are restricted. Follow staff instructions and avoid photography where signs say so.
• Arrange island-hopping boats through your accommodation.

Plan your Morotai trip and book your flight on Traveloka.