El Tari Airport (KOE)

El Tari International Airport (WATT/KOE) serves as the primary aviation gateway to Kupang, the capital city of Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) province. It plays a critical role in connecting West Timor and the surrounding islands to the rest of the archipelago, supporting regional tourism, government administration, and local commerce. The airport has significant historical origins, initially established as Penfui Airfield during World War II. It continues to function as a dual-purpose facility, sharing its runway with the Indonesian Air Force's El Tari Air Force Base. The airport was later renamed to honor El Tari, a respected former governor of the province.

Located in the Penfui subdistrict, the airport is approximately 8 kilometers northeast of Kupang's city center, a journey that typically takes 20-30 minutes by car. Travelers can easily reach the city using official airport taxis, ride-hailing services like Gojek and Grab, or pre-arranged hotel shuttles. The airport primarily handles domestic flights and acts as a crucial hub for the NTT region. Major airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, Lion Air, and Batik Air operate routes connecting Kupang with major Indonesian cities including Jakarta, Surabaya, and Denpasar (Bali). Furthermore, it is a key transfer point for Wings Air flights to smaller destinations within the province, including Labuan Bajo, Ende, Maumere, and Rote Island. While designated as an international airport, scheduled international services are infrequent.

El Tari Airport features a single, relatively modern terminal building designed to manage its passenger traffic. Inside, travelers have access to essential amenities including check-in counters, a main departure hall with ample seating, and a baggage claim area. For dining and shopping, the terminal offers a modest selection of coffee shops, small restaurants serving local and Indonesian food, convenience stores, and souvenir stalls. Other facilities include ATMs from major Indonesian banks and the Concordia Lounge, a pay-per-use lounge offering a more comfortable waiting environment.

For a smooth travel experience, passengers on domestic flights are advised to arrive at the airport 90 minutes to two hours before departure. When leaving the airport, using the official taxi counter or a reputable ride-hailing app can ensure fair pricing. For those with onward connections to other islands in East Nusa Tenggara, it is wise to allow extra time between flights, as schedules for smaller regional aircraft can be subject to delays or changes.