Lede Kalumbang Airport, Gateway to West Sumba

Lede Kalumbang Airport is the airport at Tambolaka on the western side of Sumba Island, in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. It was formerly known as Tambolaka Airport, and many travellers and booking sites still use that name. It was renamed to honour Lede Kalumbang, the first regent of the region, who took office in 1958. The airport serves three regencies: Southwest Sumba, West Sumba with its capital Waikabubak, and Central Sumba.

Where Lede Kalumbang Airport Is Located

The airport stands in Tambolaka, the capital of Southwest Sumba Regency. Waikabubak, the main town of West Sumba, is reached by road in around an hour. Sumba's other airport is at Waingapu on the island's east side, so Lede Kalumbang is the natural choice for anyone heading to the west.

Terminal and Facilities at Tambolaka

The history of the airfield goes back to 1945, when it was built during the Japanese occupation. A newer passenger terminal of about 5,400 square metres now handles flights, and it is often noted for its traditional Sumbanese look, with a tall peaked roof. The asphalt runway is 2,300 metres long and can take narrow-body jets such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.

• Codes: IATA TMC
• Former name: Tambolaka Airport
• Operator: Indonesian Directorate General of Civil Aviation

Airlines and Routes from Tambolaka

Scheduled domestic flights are run by Batik Air, NAM Air and Wings Air. Denpasar in Bali is the most important link and the easiest connection to the rest of Indonesia. Kupang, the provincial capital, is also served, and there have been flights to Surabaya. There are no international flights.

Getting from the Airport to Waikabubak and Beyond

There is little public transport at the airport. Most visitors travel with a pre-arranged hotel transfer, a rental car with driver or an ojek motorbike taxi. If you are staying at a remote beach resort, confirm your pick-up before you fly.

Things to Do in West Sumba

West Sumba is famous for its traditional villages with high thatched roofs and megalithic tombs. The coastline has quiet beaches and clear lagoons, and the Pasola festival, a ritual horseback event held in some villages, draws visitors in the early part of the year.

Tips for Flying from Tambolaka

Flights are fewer than at big airports, so book early and keep your plans flexible in the rainy season. Carry enough cash, since card machines and ATMs are not everywhere on Sumba.

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