PKU airport code: what it means for Pekanbaru

PKU is the three-letter IATA code for Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport, the airport that serves Pekanbaru, the capital of Riau province on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. When you see PKU on a boarding pass, an airline timetable or a flight search, it always points to this airport. Pilots and air traffic control use a different, four-letter ICAO code: WIBB.

People look the airport up in many ways. Some type "PKU airport" or "PKU flight code". Others search for "Pekanbaru airport" or the full name. Indonesian speakers often say Bandara Sultan Syarif Kasim, Bandara Pekanbaru or simply Bandara SSK II. They all describe the same place.

This guide covers the airport's name and codes, where it sits in relation to the city, which airlines fly from PKU, how to get into Pekanbaru, what to expect in the terminal and a few tips worth knowing before you fly.

Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport: the name and its history

The airport carries the name of Sultan Syarif Kasim II, the last ruler of the Sultanate of Siak Sri Indrapura. He is honoured in Indonesia as a national hero, remembered for backing the young Republic of Indonesia and handing over his kingdom's regalia to support it. Naming Riau's main airport after him links modern Pekanbaru with the Malay sultanate that once ruled much of the region.

Before it took its current name, the airport was known as Simpang Tiga Airport, after the area where it stands. You may still see "Pekanbaru Simpang Tiga" on some booking sites and older maps. If a search result shows that name next to the code PKU, it is the same airport.

The airfield is also shared with an Indonesian Air Force base, Roesmin Nurjadin. Passengers will not notice much of this from the terminal, but it explains why you may spot military aircraft near the runway.

Where Pekanbaru airport is and how far it is from the city

Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport lies inside Pekanbaru, roughly five to six kilometres from the city centre. That short distance is a real practical advantage. A ride into town is usually quick, although traffic in Pekanbaru can build up during weekday rush hours and on holiday weekends, so leave a margin when you head back to the airport.

Pekanbaru is the capital of Riau. For most visitors, the airport is the natural way in, whether they are coming for work, visiting family or travelling on to other parts of the province.

Flights from PKU airport: airlines and routes

PKU handles both domestic and international flights, and the mix is weighted towards domestic travel within Indonesia.

Domestic flights

The main domestic link is with Jakarta. Several Indonesian airlines fly between Pekanbaru and Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, including Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Batik Air, Citilink, Pelita Air and Super Air Jet. With that many carriers on one route, it pays to compare departure times and baggage allowances as well as airlines.

International flights to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore

The international side of PKU is focused on its close neighbours. Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Pekanbaru are run by AirAsia and Batik Air Malaysia, both flying to Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Scoot connects Pekanbaru with Singapore Changi, a trip of a little over an hour. These short hops make Pekanbaru an easy trip from Malaysia and Singapore.

Schedules and frequencies change through the year, so check current flights to Pekanbaru before you plan connections.

Getting from PKU airport into Pekanbaru

Because the airport sits within the city, getting into central Pekanbaru is straightforward. You have a few options.

Trans Metro Pekanbaru bus

Trans Metro Pekanbaru, the city's public bus network, has a corridor that serves the airport and links it with the city centre. It is the budget-friendly choice if you are travelling light and not in a hurry.

Airport taxis

Official taxis operate from the airport and are the simplest option if you have luggage or are heading straight to a hotel. Agree on the destination clearly before you leave the kerb.

Hotel pick-ups and private cars

If friends, family or a driver are collecting you, they can wait in the arrivals area. Some hotels offer pick-ups, so it is worth asking when you book.

Inside Sultan Syarif Kasim II airport: terminal and facilities

Passenger flights use a single modern terminal that handles both domestic and international departures.

The terminal has a pay-in lounge, which is useful if you arrive early and want somewhere quieter to wait. Beyond that, the terminal has the usual food and drink outlets and waiting areas.

If you need specific services such as a particular bank's ATM or a place to leave luggage, it is sensible to check with the airport or your airline before you travel, as details can change.

Travel tips for flying from Pekanbaru airport

Pekanbaru is sometimes affected by smoke haze during the dry season, when land and forest fires in the region cut visibility. On those days flights can be delayed or held until the air clears. If you are travelling in the dry months, keep an eye on news and airline messages, and avoid tight connections on the same day.

For international departures to Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, bring your passport, check your airline's check-in closing time and allow for immigration. For domestic flights to Jakarta, check-in is usually quick, but the Jakarta route is busy at peak times, so arriving early is still wise.

Because the airport is so close to town, it is tempting to leave late. Build in time for traffic, especially on Friday afternoons and ahead of public holidays.

Things to see in Pekanbaru and around Riau

Pekanbaru itself has a few landmarks that are easy to fit into a short stay. Masjid Agung An-Nur, the city's grand mosque, is known for its turquoise domes and tall minarets. Visitors are welcome outside prayer times if they dress modestly.

For history, many travellers make a day trip to Siak Sri Indrapura, the old seat of the sultanate whose last ruler gave the airport its name. The Siak Palace there blends Malay, Arab and European styles and displays objects from the royal court. The Sultan's tomb lies in Siak town, beside the Syahabuddin Mosque.

Pekanbaru is also a good base for exploring Riau's rivers, food and Malay culture, with plenty of local dishes to try in the city's markets and restaurants.

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