Kornasoren Airport

Overview

Numfoor Airport (FOO) is a regional airport located on Numfor Island, part of the Biak Numfor Regency in Papua, Indonesia. It serves as the primary gateway for travellers heading to this remote and scenic island in the Cenderawasih Bay. The airport primarily handles domestic flights within Indonesia, connecting Numfor Island to larger hubs such as Biak and Jayapura. With its modest facilities and essential services, Numfoor Airport caters to a mix of local residents, business travellers, and tourists seeking to explore the untouched beauty of West Papua. The airport operates on a limited schedule, so passengers should plan their journeys carefully.

Location & Access

Numfoor Airport is situated on the northern coast of Numfor Island, approximately 5 kilometres southwest of the main town of Sumberbaba. The island itself lies in the Pacific Ocean, about 50 kilometres northwest of Biak Island. The airport’s location is remote, surrounded by dense tropical vegetation and close to the coastline.

To reach the airport from Sumberbaba, travellers can hire a taxi or take a local minibus (angkot) for a short 10-minute ride. The road is paved but narrow, with occasional loose gravel. For those staying elsewhere on the island, four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended during the wet season (October to April) due to muddy conditions. There is no public bus service directly linking the airport to other parts of the island, but shared taxis and private cars are readily available. The nearest major city is Biak City on Biak Island, accessible by a 45-minute flight or a longer ferry crossing (roughly 3–4 hours) from Numfor’s harbour, which is about 20 minutes by road from the airport. Many travellers fly via Biak’s Frans Kaisiepo Airport to reach Numfoor.

Facilities

Numfoor Airport provides essential amenities for a comfortable transit. Confirmed facilities include a wheelchair-accessible entrance at the terminal, making it easier for passengers with reduced mobility to enter the building. Inside, there is a wheelchair-accessible toilet, as well as standard toilets for general use. These facilities are well-maintained given the remote nature of the airport.

Beyond these, the terminal offers a simple waiting area with seating. There are no major retail outlets, restaurants, or duty-free shops on-site. Passengers are advised to bring their own snacks and water for the journey, as food options are extremely limited. The airport does not have a 24-hour operation; it is open only during flight times, which typically occur in the morning and late evening – peak hours are around 9 pm and 10 pm. There is no dedicated parking lot, but vehicles can be parked informally near the terminal. The airport also lacks an on-site ATM, so visitors should bring sufficient cash (Indonesian Rupiah) before arriving.

About the Region

Numfor Island is part of the Biak Numfor Regency in the Indonesian province of Papua. The region is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, both on land and underwater. The surrounding waters of Cenderawasih Bay are part of a marine protected area and are famous for their coral reefs, abundant fish life, and opportunities for diving and snorkelling. Birdwatchers flock to the island to spot endemic species such as the Numfor paradise bird (Cicinnurus lyogyrus).

The island also holds historical significance from World War II. In 1944, Allied forces captured Numfor from Japanese troops in the Battle of Numfor, and remnants of wartime infrastructure, including airstrips and bunkers, can still be found. Visitors interested in history may explore these relics, though they are largely unmarked.

Economically, the region relies on fishing, subsistence agriculture, and a growing tourism sector. The local population is predominantly Melanesian, with a distinct culture that includes traditional dances, carving, and boat building. Travellers often visit Numfor for its pristine beaches, relaxed pace of life, and as a base for exploring nearby islands and atolls.

Practical Information

Numfoor Airport does not have a website. For inquiries, passengers can contact the airport authority by phone at +62 981 22737. The airport is not open every day; it operates only on days when flights are scheduled, which are typically a few times per week. Peak activity occurs around 9 pm and 10 pm, likely corresponding to late-evening arrivals and departures.

There is no airport hotel or accommodation within walking distance. The nearest lodgings are located in Sumberbaba, about 5 km away, including simple guesthouses and homestays. It is strongly recommended to confirm your flight schedule in advance with the airline, as timings can change with little notice. The airport’s single terminal is small, so arriving more than an hour before departure is usually sufficient. Note that there are no luggage storage facilities; keep all bags with you. For passengers needing special assistance, advance coordination with the airline is advised to ensure wheelchair access and other needs are met.