Frans Xavier Seda Airport (MOF)

Frans Xavier Seda Airport (IATA: MOF, ICAO: WATC), also known as Maumere Airport, serves as the primary air gateway to the city of Maumere and the eastern region of Flores Island in Indonesia. It plays a vital role in the area's economy, supporting both local travel and a growing tourism industry drawn to the region's world-class diving sites and cultural attractions, such as the tri-colored lakes of Mount Kelimutu. The airport provides an essential link, connecting this relatively remote part of Indonesia to major hubs within the country.

Originally named Wai Oti Airport, it was later renamed to honor Fransiskus Xaverius Seda, a distinguished Indonesian politician and government minister who hailed from Flores. The airport has undergone significant development to accommodate increasing traffic. A major expansion and modernization project completed around 2015 resulted in a new, larger terminal building, vastly improving passenger comfort and operational efficiency over the previous modest structure. This upgrade reflects the island's rising importance as a tourist destination.

Located in the village of Waioti, the airport is situated approximately 3 kilometers east of Maumere's town center. The short distance makes for convenient access, with a typical car or taxi ride taking between 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Travelers can easily find taxis and private car services waiting outside the arrivals area. Motorcycle taxis, locally known as *ojeks*, are also a common and affordable option for solo travelers with light luggage.

Operations at Frans Xavier Seda Airport are exclusively domestic. It handles scheduled passenger flights connecting Maumere to key Indonesian cities, most notably Denpasar (Bali), Kupang (West Timor), and Makassar (Sulawesi). Major airlines serving these routes include regional carriers like Wings Air and Nam Air. The airport consists of a single, modern terminal building that handles both arrivals and departures. Inside, facilities are functional and sufficient for a regional airport. Passengers will find a main check-in hall, a clean and air-conditioned waiting area with seating, basic restroom facilities, and a few small shops and cafes offering snacks, drinks, and local souvenirs.

For those traveling through the airport, arriving 90 minutes prior to a scheduled domestic departure is generally recommended. Transportation from the terminal is straightforward, but it is advisable to agree on a fare with a taxi or private car driver before beginning your journey. While there may be an ATM, carrying a sufficient amount of Indonesian Rupiah is a practical measure. The airport serves as an excellent entry point for an overland journey across Flores, a popular travel itinerary that often concludes at Labuan Bajo in the west.