Getting to Know Juwata Airport

Juwata Airport (TRK) is the main airport of Tarakan, an island city in North Kalimantan, Indonesia. Tarakan is a trading and oil town close to the borders with Malaysia and the Philippines, and the airport is its key link with the rest of Indonesia. The site began as an airfield in the Dutch colonial era and today shares its runway with an Indonesian Air Force base.

Location: Juwata Airport and Tarakan City

The airport sits only about 3 km from the centre of Tarakan. That short distance means most hotels in the city are a quick drive from the terminal, which is handy for early departures.

Terminal and Facilities at Juwata Airport

A modern multi-level passenger terminal replaced the older building and has jet bridges for boarding larger aircraft. Inside there are check-in counters, a waiting area, food and drink outlets and small shops selling local snacks. It is a manageable size, so getting from the kerb to your gate does not take long.

Airlines and Routes from Tarakan

Jet services connect Tarakan with bigger Indonesian cities. Airlines serving the airport include Batik Air, Lion Air and Super Air Jet from the Lion Air Group, alongside Citilink, with routes to places such as Jakarta and Balikpapan. Balikpapan is a common connecting point for onward flights. Susi Air also runs small-aircraft services to remote parts of North Kalimantan and to Maratua Island. Schedules change, so check the latest timetable for your dates.

Ground Transport from Juwata Airport

• Taxi: taxis wait outside arrivals for the short ride into Tarakan.
• Hotel pick-up: some hotels arrange airport transfers on request.
• Private car or rental: useful if you plan to explore the island or head to the ferry port.

Things to Do in Tarakan

Tarakan's mangrove and proboscis monkey conservation area lets you see these long-nosed monkeys on boardwalks close to the city. The island also has Second World War relics, including old bunkers and gun positions, and seafood is a highlight of the local food scene. From Tarakan, some travellers continue to the islands of the Derawan and Maratua area for diving and snorkelling.

Tips for Flying from Juwata Airport

Small-aircraft flights to the interior carry tight baggage limits and can be affected by weather, so pack light and keep some flexibility in your plans. For flights to Maratua or other remote strips, confirm your booking close to departure.

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