Long Seridan Airport

Long Seridan Airport (ODN) Guide

Long Seridan Airport (ODN) is a small airstrip tucked deep in the interior of Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. It serves the remote longhouse community of Long Seridan and a handful of nearby settlements, providing a vital link to the outside world. Flying into ODN is an adventure in itself: you'll arrive aboard a small turboprop plane, swoop low over endless rainforest, and touch down on a narrow strip carved out of the jungle. This guide covers everything you need to know about this unique little airport.

About Long Seridan Airport

Long Seridan Airport is classified as an airstrip, not a full commercial airport. It sits in the remote heart of Borneo, surrounded by dense tropical rainforest and crisscrossed by rivers. The nearest towns of any size are Marudi and Miri, both several hours away by boat or road – when roads exist at all. For the local communities, the airstrip is a lifeline for medical emergencies, supplies, and travel. Most flights are operated by MASwings (the rural air service arm of Malaysia Airlines) or other small carriers using aircraft like the DHC-6 Twin Otter. These planes carry around 15–20 passengers, so the experience is intimate and personal. The runway is short and paved, but there are no taxiways or jet bridges – you walk from the aircraft to the terminal.

Geographically, Long Seridan lies in the Baram River basin, an area known for its biodiversity and indigenous cultures. The airport itself is a single strip aligned with the prevailing wind, with the terminal building set back from the runway. There is no air traffic control tower; pilots communicate by radio with a ground handler. The airport is not open every day of the week, and flights operate on a limited schedule – typically a few times per week depending on demand and weather. Checking the flight schedule in advance is essential.

Arriving at Long Seridan Airport

Landing at Long Seridan is an experience in itself. As your plane descends, you'll see nothing but treetops and winding rivers until the airstrip suddenly appears. The approach is steep, and the landing is short and firm. Once on the ground, the aircraft taxis to a small parking area. Passengers disembark via a portable staircase and walk across the tarmac to the terminal. The air is humid and filled with the sounds of the jungle – cicadas, birds, and the distant murmur of the Baram River.

The terminal building is basic but functional. Inside, you'll find a check-in counter (used for departures), a waiting area with plastic chairs, and a notice board with flight information. The only confirmed amenity is a toilet, which is clean and kept in reasonable condition. There are no shops, cafés, or ATMs, so you should bring anything you might need for your onward journey. The airport staff are friendly and helpful; they can assist with connecting transport or local advice.

Departing from Long Seridan

Departure procedures are straightforward. Arrive at the airport at least 30–45 minutes before your scheduled flight, as check-in and boarding are manual. There are no security scanners; your bags will be weighed on a simple scale and placed on a trolley. You'll then wait in the seating area until the aircraft is ready. Boarding is announced over a loudspeaker or by a staff member. You walk to the plane, climb the steps, and find your seat. Because these are small aircraft, luggage is stored in a rear compartment or under the seat. The flight experience is scenic and smooth, often flying low enough to see villages and logging roads below.

Peak hours at the airport are reported to be around 8pm and 9pm, which likely correspond to flight arrivals or departures at those times. However, this may vary, and flights can be delayed due to weather or operational reasons. It's always wise to confirm with the airline or call the airport directly using the number provided.

Facilities and Services

As mentioned, facilities are minimal. There is a toilet for passengers. The terminal has basic lighting and fans but no air conditioning. Drinking water may not be available, so bring your own. There is no Wi-Fi or internet access. Mobile phone coverage is patchy at best, so don't rely on it. The airport does not have a restaurant or snack bar, but you may find vendors selling local snacks or drinks outside the terminal occasionally – it's best not to count on this. Cash is essential, as there are no ATMs.

The airport's contact number is +60 85-615 204. You can call for flight information or general inquiries. The official website (http://www.malaysiaairports.com.my) provides information on Malaysian airports, though details for Long Seridan are limited. The airport is managed by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad.

Flying to Long Seridan – The Experience

Taking a flight to Long Seridan is an unforgettable part of any trip to the interior of Borneo. The journey offers incredible views of the rainforest canopy, winding rivers, and isolated longhouses. The aircraft are small, so you can see the pilots at work and hear the engines hum. It's a far cry from the sterile experience of major airports. The atmosphere at ODN is calm and unhurried. There's no rush, no queues, no duty-free. You're truly in the middle of nowhere.

The local community often uses the airstrip for daily life: a mother with a baby, a man carrying a bag of rice, a student heading to school in Miri. You'll share the flight with locals, making the journey feel authentic and grounded. The remote location is one of the airport's strengths – it offers a genuine slice of rural Borneo.

Practical Tips for Long Seridan Airport

• Check flight schedules in advance. The airport is not open every day, and flights are infrequent. Contact MASwings or the airport directly to confirm your flight.
• Arrive early. While check-in is simple, being early gives you time to settle and enjoy the setting.
• Pack light. Small aircraft have strict weight limits (often 10–15 kg per passenger). Bags are weighed, and excess may be denied or charged.
• Bring snacks and water. There are no food or drink outlets inside the terminal.
• Carry cash. There are no ATMs at the airport, and nearby villages may not accept cards.
• Dress for the climate. Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Rain is possible year-round, so a small umbrella or rain jacket is useful.
• Respect local customs. The airport serves indigenous communities; be polite and mindful of cultural norms.
• Enjoy the journey. The flight itself is a highlight – sit back and watch the landscape unfold.

Nearby Attractions and Getting Around

Long Seridan itself is a small settlement centered on a longhouse. Visitors can explore the surrounding jungle, visit traditional longhouses, and learn about the culture of the Orang Ulu people. There are walking trails and rivers for fishing or boating. However, infrastructure is basic, and independent travel requires planning. The airport is the primary entry point; from there, you may arrange transport with local guides or boat operators. There are no car rental services at the airport.

The nearest major town is Miri, about a 45-minute flight away. Many travelers use Long Seridan as a jumping-off point for deeper jungle expeditions or to visit the nearby Loagan Bunut National Park.

Conclusion

Long Seridan Airport (ODN) is more than just a transport hub – it's a gateway to one of the most remote and beautiful regions of Malaysian Borneo. With its rustic charm, friendly staff, and stunning natural setting, it offers a travel experience that is increasingly rare. Whether you're a backpacker seeking adventure, a nature enthusiast, or a traveler visiting family, ODN will leave a lasting impression. Plan ahead, keep expectations realistic, and embrace the simplicity. The journey itself is the destination.