Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport (SWQ)

Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport (IATA: SWQ, ICAO: WADS) serves as the primary air gateway to Sumbawa Besar and the western and central regions of Sumbawa Island in Indonesia's West Nusa Tenggara province. The airport plays a vital role in connecting this relatively remote island to the rest of the country, supporting local commerce, government administration, and a growing tourism sector focused on surfing, marine life, and natural attractions like Moyo Island. Its function is crucial for providing faster access than the traditional sea-based transport.

Originally known as Brang Bidji Airport, it was renamed to honor the 17th Sultan of Sumbawa, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage. A significant milestone in its history was the inauguration of a new, modern terminal building in February 2018. This development substantially upgraded the airport's capacity and passenger comfort, replacing the older, smaller facility and positioning it for future growth. The airport is conveniently located just three kilometers east of the Sumbawa Besar city center, making it easily accessible. Travelers can reach the terminal in approximately 10 to 15 minutes by car, taxi, or *ojek* (motorcycle taxi), which are readily available for transport to and from local accommodations.

Operations at Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport are exclusively domestic. There are no scheduled international flights. The airport primarily handles short-haul routes operated by regional carriers using turboprop aircraft like the ATR 72. Key airlines serving the airport include Wings Air (a subsidiary of Lion Air Group) and sometimes Citilink. These carriers provide essential connectivity to major regional hubs, with the most frequent and reliable route being to Lombok International Airport (LOP), which serves as the main transfer point for travelers arriving from Jakarta, Bali, and other major Indonesian cities. The new terminal was designed to accommodate up to 189,000 passengers annually.

The airport features a single, modern terminal building with basic but functional facilities. Inside, travelers will find a streamlined check-in area, a comfortable departure lounge with seating, and a simple baggage claim hall. Amenities are limited, consisting mainly of public restrooms and a few small kiosks or cafes offering snacks, drinks, and local sundries. There are no executive lounges or extensive retail outlets. For travelers, it is advisable to arrive 60 to 90 minutes before a scheduled departure. As most flights are connections through Lombok, passengers should allow ample time for transfers, which typically require collecting baggage and checking in again for the onward flight. Arranging ground transport in advance can be helpful, though options are usually available upon arrival.