Bersujud Airport

Overview

Bersujud Airport Batulicin (also known as Batulicin Airport) serves the Tanah Bumbu Regency in South Kalimantan, Indonesia. It is a relatively small airport with international status, catering primarily to domestic flights and limited regional international traffic. The airport is a key transport hub for the regency's growing economy, driven by mining (coal and nickel), palm oil plantations, and forestry. Business travellers from the resource sector form a significant portion of passengers, alongside local residents and tourists exploring the natural beauty of South Kalimantan.

Despite its international designation, the airport's passenger traffic is modest compared to larger Indonesian airports. It operates scheduled flights to and from major cities like Jakarta and Balikpapan, with occasional international charters. The airport is owned and operated by the Indonesian Ministry of Transportation, reflecting its role in regional connectivity.

Location & Access

Bersujud Airport is located approximately 10 kilometres east of Batulicin, the capital of Tanah Bumbu Regency. It sits near the coast of the Java Sea, about 200 kilometres southeast of Banjarmasin, the provincial capital of South Kalimantan. The airport's address is in the village of Bersujud, which gives the airport its name.

Access to the airport is primarily by road. From Batulicin town centre, the drive takes about 15–20 minutes via Jalan Raya Batulicin. The road is generally well-maintained, though during the rainy season (November to April) some stretches may be slippery. Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Gojek and Grab operate in Batulicin, providing reliable transport to the airport. Airport parking is available, including a wheelchair-accessible car park. For those arriving from further afield, such as Banjarmasin or Kotabaru, the journey takes several hours by car or bus.

The nearest major airport is Syamsudin Noor Airport in Banjarmasin, about a 3–4 hour drive. Bersujud Airport thus serves as a closer alternative for travellers heading to the eastern part of South Kalimantan.

Facilities

Bersujud Airport offers essential facilities for passengers, with a focus on accessibility. Confirmed amenities include a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible car park, and wheelchair-accessible toilet, making the airport navigable for passengers with reduced mobility. Baggage storage is available for those needing to leave luggage for a few hours or days – useful for travellers on layovers or those visiting mining sites where bags are not needed.

Standard toilets are provided within the terminal. The airport has a small waiting area and check-in counters. Given its size, it does not have a wide variety of retail or dining options; passengers are advised to bring snacks or purchase items before arriving. The terminal is clean and functional, with a focus on efficiency rather than luxury.

There is no confirmed information about lounges, currency exchange, or duty-free shops, so travellers should plan accordingly. Wi-Fi availability is not guaranteed; it is best to assume limited connectivity.

About the Region

Tanah Bumbu Regency is located in the southeastern part of South Kalimantan, bordered by the Java Sea to the south. The regency is known for its rich natural resources, particularly coal and nickel mines, which drive the local economy. Large palm oil plantations also cover significant areas. This industrial activity attracts business travellers and expatriates, many of whom transit through Bersujud Airport.

Beyond mining, the region offers natural attractions. The coastal area features beaches such as Pagatan Beach, popular for its golden sand and fishing villages. The Sungai Wain Forest, a protected area, is home to proboscis monkeys and Bornean orangutans, though access may require a guide. The culture of Tanah Bumbu is influenced by the Banjar people, with traditional dances and cuisine that incorporate seafood and local spices.

Travellers to the area might also explore the nearby Kusan River or visit the traditional market in Batulicin for handcrafted souvenirs. The regency is less touristy than other parts of Kalimantan, offering a glimpse into rural and industrial Indonesian life.

Practical Information

• Address: Bandara Bersujud, Bersujud, Kec. Simpang Empat, Kabupaten Tanah Bumbu, Kalimantan Selatan 72211, Indonesia
• Phone: +62 518 6070982
• Website: https://hubud.dephub.go.id/hubud/website/bandara/282

The airport is not open every day; it operates on a schedule that may include closures for maintenance or holidays. Peak hours are around 5 pm and 6 pm, likely coinciding with flight departures and arrivals. Travellers should confirm flight schedules with their airline in advance. The terminal opens approximately two hours before the first departure and closes after the last arrival.

The contact number can be used for general inquiries, though English may not be widely spoken. For reliable information, check the website or contact the airline directly.