Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport / Roesmin Nurjadin AFB

Overview

Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport (IATA: PKU) is the primary air gateway to Pekanbaru, the capital of Riau province on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia. It serves both domestic and international flights, connecting the region to major Indonesian cities and a limited number of overseas destinations, primarily in neighbouring countries such as Malaysia and Singapore. The airport is named after a former sultan of Siak Sri Inderapura and plays a vital role in supporting the local economy, which is driven by oil, gas, palm oil, and timber industries. Located approximately 8 kilometres east of Pekanbaru city centre, the airport is well positioned for travellers heading into the city or the surrounding Riau region.

Context and Regional Role

Pekanbaru is a fast-growing city and a key economic hub in central Sumatra. The airport handles a mix of business travellers, government officials, and tourists visiting the area for conferences, trade, or to explore nearby attractions such as the Kampar River and the Bukit Tigapuluh National Park. Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport also serves as a transit point for travellers heading to remote areas in Riau province, where road travel can be time-consuming. The terminal is modern and functional, having undergone expansions in the past to accommodate increasing passenger numbers. While not as large as Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta, it is a busy regional airport with flights from major Indonesian carriers like Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Batik Air, and Citilink, as well as international airlines such as AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines.

Amenities

The airport provides a range of amenities designed to make travel more comfortable and accessible. Confirmed facilities include:

• On-site services: The terminal offers various services such as information counters, baggage wrapping, and luggage storage. Passengers can find ATMs, currency exchange counters, and a small selection of retail shops and food outlets within the departure and arrival areas.
• Wheelchair-accessible parking: The car park includes designated spaces for vehicles displaying a disability permit, making it easier for passengers with reduced mobility to access the terminal.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance: The main terminal entrance is step-free and wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring smooth entry for all travellers.
• Toilets: Clean restrooms are available throughout the terminal, including accessible cubicles.
• Changing tables: Family-friendly facilities include baby changing tables in both male and female restrooms, assisting parents travelling with infants.
• Paid parking lot: The airport operates a paid parking area with short-term and long-term options. Rates are charged per hour or per day, and payment can be made at exit booths using cash or electronic methods.

Please note that additional amenities such as lounges, prayer rooms (musholla), and free Wi-Fi are commonly found in Indonesian airports, but specific details for this airport are not confirmed in the available data. Travellers should check with their airline or the airport’s official website for the most up-to-date information.

Peak Hours

Based on traffic patterns, the airport experiences its busiest periods at 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm. During these hours, passengers can expect longer queues at check-in counters, security screening, and boarding gates. Arriving at the airport at least two to three hours before your flight’s departure time during these peak hours is advisable. The terminal can become crowded, so allow extra time for parking and navigating the public areas.

Hours of Operation

The airport is not open 24 hours a day. It operates according to flight schedules, typically opening in the early morning for the first departures and closing after the last arrival in the evening. Passengers arriving late at night may find the terminal locked; it is best to arrange transportation in advance to avoid being stranded outside. If you have a very early flight, confirm with your airline whether the terminal will be accessible.

Contact Information

• Website: sultansyarifkasim2-airport.co.id
• Phone: +62 761 674694

The official website provides flight schedules, airline contact details, and information on airport services. For real-time assistance, the phone number connects to the airport’s information desk. However, response times may vary, so checking the website or contacting your airline directly is often faster.

Getting to and from the Airport

The airport is conveniently connected to Pekanbaru city centre by road. Taxis and ride-hailing services (such as Gojek and Grab) are readily available at the arrivals area. Alternatively, passengers can use public buses that operate along the main route into town. Drivers can access the airport via Jalan Sultan Syarif Kasim, which connects to the city’s major roads. Parking fees apply for those leaving their vehicles at the airport.

Final Tips

• If travelling during peak hours (around 5–6 pm), plan extra time for all processes.
• The airport’s paid parking lot is convenient but can fill up during busy periods.
• For passengers with mobility needs, the accessible parking and entrance make navigation easier.
• Families with babies will appreciate the changing tables in the restrooms.
• Since the airport closes overnight, ensure your arrival time aligns with terminal opening hours.