LNG Badak Airport (BXT)

LNG Badak Airport (WALC (BXT)) in Bontang, Borneo Island, Indonesia, recently ceased its commercial flight operations in July 2025. As such, recent traveler reviews directly pertaining to active commercial flights are unavailable. Prior to this, the airport served as a functional hub, primarily for the needs of Badak LNG company personnel, with limited commercial routes, and was generally viewed as a convenient local gateway.

What Travelers (Historically) Appreciated:

• Convenient Location: The airport is situated approximately one kilometer from the Bontang city center, offering easy access for travelers.
• Smooth Operations: Historically, flights, particularly the chartered services connecting to larger hubs like Balikpapan, were often reported as on-time and efficient.
• Basic, Functional Facilities: Described as a small but functional public airport, it provided essential amenities for passengers, including a basic lounge area and restroom facilities.
• Cleanliness: The broader area managed by Badak NGL, encompassing the airport, was noted for its cleanliness.
• Local Souvenir Options: An outlet offering a variety of typical Bontang souvenirs was available at the airport for departing passengers.
• Simple and Accessible Parking: The airport featured a designated parking area that was considered safe and easily accessible for cars.
• Minimal Security/Immigration Wait Times: Given its status as a private airport with limited commercial routes, security and immigration processes were likely swift and uneventful, though specific recent reviews are not available.

Current Status and Common Concerns (for future activation):

• Cessation of Commercial Flights: Commercial passenger services, operated by Pelita Air on the Bontang-Balikpapan route, concluded on July 7, 2025, after their 11-year contract ended. Consequently, there are no recent traveler experiences from commercial flights.
• Runway Length Limitations: A primary challenge identified for the potential reactivation of commercial flights is the current length of the runway, which is considered too short for optimal operational efficiency and would require extension.
• Limited Amenities: While functional, the airport historically did not offer the extensive services or diverse food options typically found in larger airports.

The Bontang City Government is actively exploring plans to reactivate LNG Badak Airport for commercial use, a move that has garnered strong public support among residents seeking additional transportation alternatives to Balikpapan and Samarinda. This reactivation initiative requires thorough planning, including discussions with the Lembaga Manajemen Aset Negara (LMAN) regarding asset ownership and the necessary runway expansion.