Airlines may charge extra for surfboards and sports equipment on these small aircraft. Confirm the rules and size limits with your airline before travelling.

How long is the runway at David Constantijn Saudale Airport?

The asphalt runway measures 1,650 by 30 metres, suitable for turboprops such as the ATR 72.

What are the airport codes for David Constantijn Saudale Airport?

The IATA code is RTI and the ICAO code is WATR. Locally it is often called DC Saudale Airport.

How do I get from David Constantijn Saudale Airport to Nemberala?

Most visitors arrange a pickup through their accommodation or hire a local car. The drive takes longer than the short trip to Ba'a, so plan ahead.

Cheap Flights from David Constantijn Saudale Airport (RTI)

David Constantijn Saudale Airport on Rote Island

David Constantijn Saudale Airport (RTI), often shortened to DC Saudale Airport, is the air gateway to Rote Island in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. It serves Ba'a, the main town of Rote Ndao Regency. The airport is run by a unit of Indonesia's Directorate General of Civil Aviation and handles domestic flights.

Originally known as Lekunik, the airstrip was built by the local community in a self-help effort led by David Constantijn Saudale, whose name it now carries. Regular operations began in 1976.

Location and distance to Ba'a

The airport lies in Lobalain district, close to Ba'a on the island's north coast. The drive into town is short. Nemberala and the surf beaches of the south-west take longer, so plan road transport in advance.

Runway and terminal at DC Saudale Airport

A single asphalt runway of 1,650 by 30 metres can take turboprops such as the ATR 72. The domestic terminal is small, with a food court and restaurant, and there is public parking outside.

Airlines and flights from Rote

Two airlines serve the airport. Wings Air flies ATR 72 aircraft to Kupang (El Tari Airport), a very short hop across the strait. Susi Air uses smaller Cessna Grand Caravans on the Kupang route and also links Rote with Savu Island. Frequencies are limited, often a few flights a week, so check the latest schedule before you travel.

Getting around from Rote's airport

There is no public airport bus. Most travellers use:

Hotel or guesthouse pickups, common for Nemberala stays
Local cars or motorbike taxis for trips to Ba'a
Rental motorbikes for exploring the island at your own pace

Ferries also link Rote with Kupang, which gives a sea alternative if flights are full.

Things to see on Rote Island

Rote draws surfers to its south-west coast, where Nemberala is the main base. The island is also famous for the sasando, a stringed instrument made from lontar palm leaves, and for its traditional woven textiles. Quiet beaches and small offshore islands round out the appeal.

Tips for flying to and from Rote

Surfboards and dive gear may carry extra baggage charges on small aircraft, so check with the airline before you fly. Book early, as seats are limited. Many visitors spend a night in Kupang to make connections work.

Check flights from Rote on Traveloka and book your seat.