Nusantara International Airport in Indonesia’s new capital, IKN, has officially entered its operational phase, marking a major step forward for connectivity in East Kalimantan. While broader development of IKN continues, the airport is already equipped to serve domestic and international passengers, reinforcing the region’s long-term transformation agenda.
More than a VVIP gateway for government officials, the airport is designed as a world-class facility capable of handling wide-body aircraft and long-haul flights. Once fully commercial, it is expected to become the most advanced aviation hub in Kalimantan.
According to Imam Alwan, Head of Nusantara International Airport, the facility has been officially operational since June 12, 2025, following the issuance of its airport certification.
“For now, the airport remains in special-status mode, serving charter flights as well as government and Air Force aircraft. Our main focus is preparing the transition to full commercial operations in 2026,” Imam said on Thursday (December 4, 2025), as quoted by Kompas.
Built to Handle the World’s Largest Aircraft, Ready for Commercial
Nusantara International Airport was constructed with technical specifications surpassing other regional airports, underscoring its role as the primary gateway to Indonesia’s new capital. Its 3,000-meter by 45-meter runway is classified as “ultimate,” enabling operations for some of the world’s largest aircraft, including the Boeing 777 and Airbus A380.
The passenger terminal can process 420 travelers per hour—equivalent to 1.6 million passengers annually—while airside capacity allows for up to 19 aircraft movements per hour. Imam noted that the airport is the best-prepared facility in Kalimantan for long-range international flights, opening the door for direct global routes that have long been concentrated in Java.
While the airside infrastructure is complete, the airport continues to refine its landside facilities, including staff housing, landscaping, and quarantine and immigration offices. These upgrades are aligned with IKN’s target of becoming Indonesia’s political hub by 2028.
For now, management falls under the Ministry of Transportation’s Airport Operations Unit (UPBU), rather than a state-owned enterprise.
“Its status remains special while we await regulatory adjustments for full commercial operation in 2026. All facilities are ready—we only need policy support,” Imam added.
The airport’s readiness also positions it as a potential Hajj Embarkation Point as early as next year. It is expected to strengthen a multiple-airport ecosystem across East Kalimantan, improving mobility and supporting regional economic growth.
Land Acquisition with Social and Legal Safeguards
The airport occupies 621 hectares provided by the Indonesia Land Bank Agency (BBT) under Presidential Regulation No. 31/2023. The land acquisition process was complex due to existing community settlements and cultivated areas, requiring a Social Impact Mitigation Scheme (PDSK) supported by the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Public Works to compensate for affected crops.
Alongside compensation, BBT implemented an Agrarian Reform program that offers replacement land to residents whose farmland was impacted. This land is legalized through a Right of Use certificate issued under the Land Bank’s management rights and includes ten years of state protection before evaluation for a potential upgrade to full ownership.
With 129 residents included in the first relocation phase, the program ensures that essential infrastructure development advances while upholding community rights and legal certainty.
Source: Kompas, BerandaPost
Photo Credit: Dok. Hutama Karya
