Gov’t to Develop Matahora Airport in Wakatobi
Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi answers reporters’ questions at Matahora Airport, Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi, Saturday (28/2). (Photo by: Ministry of Transportation).
The Indonesian Government through Ministry of Transportation plans to expand Matahora Airport in Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi in 2021.
“President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has launched Wakatobi as one of five “New Bali,” Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi said while inspecting the airport, Saturday (28/2).
According to Budi, although the current condition of Matohara Airport is better than before, the Ministry still decides to expand the airport in order to support Wakatobi tourism which is famous for its underwater beauty.
“We will expand the airport, be it the infrastructure and the number of flights, including additional flights to Makassar or Bali,” the Minister added.
For the record, in 2020 the Government will carry out the expansion of the airport, such as: to establish the Runway End Safety Area (RESA) and cargo buildings, to install airport boundary fences, to widen the road to ease the Aviation Accident Relief and Firefighter Work Unit (PKP PK) mobility as well as to add one round trip flight/day to Kendari.
In 2021, the development plans are: to extend the runway of 250 x 45 m2, to prepare land in the extension area, to widen the apron to 150 x 85 m2, including the markings and construction of the cargo building access road. (BKIP Kemenhub/EN)
Translated by: Galuh Wicaksono
Reviewed by: Mia Medyana
