Trucks near a palm oil plantation close to Indonesia’s future capital, Nusantara, in East Kalimantan, highlight the rapid development underway. President Joko Widodo has announced that Nusantara’s airport, originally designed for VIP use, will begin serving commercial flights by the end of the year. This move aims to enhance accessibility and boost the economy in the region.
Transforming Travel and Accessibility
Located in East Kalimantan on the island of Borneo, the new capital’s airport is under construction and is expected to handle 200,000 passengers initially. With a future capacity planned for up to seven million passengers annually, the facility is set to significantly ease the journey for business travelers and religious pilgrims alike.
A Strategic Development Amidst Delays
The airport project, which encountered delays pushing its initial August opening to later in the year, involves substantial investment. Costing about 4.3 trillion rupiah (approximately US$283 million), the airport features a 3,000-meter runway to accommodate wide-body international flights, setting the stage for global connectivity.
Nusantara: A Vision of Urban Sustainability
Indonesia’s ambitious project to shift its capital from the congested Jakarta aims to establish Nusantara as a sustainable urban area. Plans for the city include advanced renewable energy utilization and smart waste management systems to promote a green living environment.
The completion of the airport is crucial for the new capital’s success, facilitating easier access for visitors who previously had to endure a two-hour drive from Balikpapan. This development is not only a significant step in urban planning but also a critical element in bolstering tourism and economic growth in Indonesia’s emerging capital.
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