Sultan Muhammad Salahuddin Airport in Bima

Sultan Muhammad Salahuddin Airport is the main airport for Bima, on the eastern side of Sumbawa island in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. It is named after a former Sultan of Bima, and it was earlier known as Palibelo Airport after the district where it stands. It serves domestic flights only.

The site has a long aviation history. Pioneering long-distance flyers stopped here in the early days of flight, including Amy Johnson, who refuelled in Bima on her solo flight to Australia.

Location: From the Airport to Bima City

The airport lies in Palibelo district, Bima Regency, south of Bima city. Sources place it about 10 kilometres from the city, and the trip is a short drive along the main road around Bima Bay.

Terminal and Facilities at Bima Airport

A newer two-storey passenger terminal replaced the original building, giving more room for check-in and waiting. The runway has been extended over the years so it can take larger narrow-body jets. Facilities are modest, as you would expect at a regional airport, so bring snacks and a charged phone.

Airlines and Routes from Bima

Wings Air operates the regular scheduled flights, using turboprop aircraft. Its main routes from Bima are:

• Lombok, for connections through Lombok International Airport
• Denpasar, Bali, a hub for onward flights across Indonesia

Other routes have come and gone over time, so check the current schedule when you search.

Getting from Sultan Muhammad Salahuddin Airport into Bima

Road is the only way in. Taxis and private drivers meet arriving flights, and many hotels can arrange a pick-up if you ask ahead. Confirm the fare before you get in.

Around Bima and East Sumbawa

Bima was the seat of a historic sultanate, and the former palace, Asi Mbojo, now works as a museum in the city. The town sits on a sheltered bay, and the wider region has quiet beaches and hills. Many travellers also pass through Bima on their way east to the port of Sape, where ferries leave for Flores and the Komodo area.

Travel Tips for Bima Airport

• Turboprop flights have tighter baggage limits, so check your allowance before you pack.
• Arrive early. Check-in can close sooner than at large airports.
• Arrange your onward ride to Sape or your hotel before you land.

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